The Miami Heat are believed to be looking to strengthen their roster this offseason after a disappointing first-round playoff exit this time around.
The Heat’s most glaring area of need this offseason might be their offense. They were ranked 21st in that department this past season, not nearly good enough for a team with Championship aspirations and one that has made two NBA Finals appearances in the past five years.
So, it will be interesting to see how the Heat restructure their roster as they look to become genuine contenders again.
The uncertain future of Jimmy Butler will surely be a major worry for the franchise, with the 34-year-old believed to be looking for a max contract extension this summer.
On the other hand, the Heat have been told to consider adding another veteran to their roster.
That player is none other than Russell Westbrook. Aaron Zacharias wrote on Last Word on Sports: “Westbrook currently has a 4-million-dollar player option. If he chooses to decline and look elsewhere, the Miami Heat tradition would be to follow Westbrook’s moves and make their own. Not to mention, Westbrook’s personality and playing style would gel perfectly with the Heat culture. Yes, his offensive capabilities have waned in recent years. However, he brings energy and effort to the defensive end and would be a reliable backup to current Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier.”
Westbrook was arguably the best player on the planet at one point in time and was named the MVP in 2017. He is also a two-time NBA scoring champion, a three-time assists leader and a nine-time All-Star.
For three straight seasons during his time with the Oklahoma City Thunder, Westbrook had averaged a triple-double. A remarkable feat to say the least.
He is clearly not that player anymore. But Westbrook has made positive contributions for the Los Angeles Clippers after a much-criticised stint with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Westbrook would not be a game-changing signing these days but if available, a move for him is worth considering.
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