Hoops Wire

Category: Heat

Latest Miami Heat Rumors and News.

  • Source: Spurs, Mavericks, Timberwolves, Rockets, Lakers, Heat To Pursue Kevin Durant Trade In Offseason

    Source: Spurs, Mavericks, Timberwolves, Rockets, Lakers, Heat To Pursue Kevin Durant Trade In Offseason

    The San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks, Minnesota Timberwolves, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat will pursue a Kevin Durant trade this offseason, an NBA source told Hoops Wire. 

    Durant will make $54.7 million next season in the final year of his contract. The Phoenix Suns are expected to trade the future Hall of Famer this summer. 

    Durant is a four-time scoring champion, a two-time champion, a two-time Finals MVP and a one-time MVP. The swingman has played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Golden State Warriors, Brooklyn Nets and Suns.

    The Warriors had a deal to acquire Durant at this year’s NBA trade deadline, but Durant blocked it because he didn’t want to get traded “midway through the season.”

    “I just didn’t wanna get traded midway through the season,” Durant told NBA reporter Malika Andrews of ESPN. “It was nothing against my time with the Warriors. Or I heard it was because I don’t like Draymond (Green). At the end of the day, I just didn’t wanna move and I wanted to see it through with my team in Phoenix and see what we can do through the rest of the season. So I’m glad I’m still there.”

    The Suns are only 29-33 despite having Durant, Devin Booker and Bradley Beal. They are in 11th place in the Western Conference standings. 

    Phoenix wouldn’t even be in the play-in tournament if the season ended today. 

    Durant is averaging 26.9 points, 6.0 rebounds and 4.2 assists in 49 games this season while shooting 52.7% from the field, 39.8% from beyond the arc and 82.5% from the free-throw line. The Texas product turns 37 in September. 

    A 15-time All-Star, Durant has career averages of 27.2 points, 7.0 rebounds and 4.4 assists. He was the second overall pick in the 2007 draft. 

    Durant doesn’t have a no-trade clause in his contract, but he and the Suns are expected to work together on a trade so he can land somewhere he wants to be. 

  • Kevin Love Says He Wasn’t Ready For Part-Time Role With Cavs, But Perspective Has Shifted

    Kevin Love Says He Wasn’t Ready For Part-Time Role With Cavs, But Perspective Has Shifted

    CLEVELAND — Kevin Love returned to Cleveland on Wednesday for the first time since agreeing to a buyout with the Cavaliers in 2023.  As Love stepped onto the floor for the Miami Heat, Barry Jackson of The Miami Herald pointed out that the role he’s now filling with the Heat was one he was reluctant to accept just two years ago with the Cavs.Kevin Love, Heat, NBA

    Once a key figure in Cleveland’s championship run, Love has now embraced a different position in Miami — one where he’s less frequently seen on the court and more often in a mentor role.

    The 36-year-old, who is averaging just 5.3 points and 4.3 rebounds in 11 minutes per game this season, has become an elder statesman, offering his experience and wisdom to his younger teammates.

    He admitted to Jackson that he wasn’t “ready yet” to accept a part-time role at age 34, but with the passing of time, his perspective has shifted.

    “I’m certainly understanding of where I’m at,” Love said. “It’s one of the things I told coach (Erik Spoelstra). I get it. I want to keep pouring into this team and doing whatever I can. Stay ready, and if I do or do not get time, I’m going to keep being a mentor or sounding board for (teammates).”

    Though Love has only played in five of Miami’s past 27 games, his presence remains significant.

    In those rare appearances, such as Monday’s game against Washington, where he recorded nine rebounds in just 12 minutes, Love shows occasional glimpses of the talent that earned him five All-Star selections over his 17-year career. His contributions off the court, however, are now the hallmark of his role with the Heat.

    In many ways, Love has inherited the veteran leadership responsibilities once held by Udonis Haslem, who retired after the 2022 season. Love maintains a balance of humor and serious discussions to keep the team focused, adding that these conversations sometimes veer off in unexpected directions.

    “I let (Tyler Herro) come to me about stuff non-basketball related,” Love said. “I’m trying to create a really great ecosystem here where we can celebrate each other, celebrate small wins, and build guys up. I know how this thing goes. It’s monotonous. Guys can get into a situation (where they’re wondering), ‘Are we headed for the play-in again? Or what are we doing?’”

    With one season left on his contract at $4.2 million, Love is poised to continue his leadership role with the Heat for at least another year.

    Love also acknowledged that his return to Cleveland held sentimental value. He missed both matchups between the Heat and Cavaliers last season, one due to injury and another for personal reasons. Wednesday marked Miami’s only trip to Rocket Arena this season, although a potential playoff matchup could loom if the Heat secure the No. 8 seed.

    “I have so much love for that organization and city and Ohio,” Love said. “When you go on a Finals run with special players, that will always be a part of you. I’ll probably go home and look at my ring and reflect a little bit.”

  • Kevin Love Set To Face Cavaliers In Cleveland For First Time Since Leaving: ‘I’d Be Lying If I Said It Wasn’t Emotional’

    Kevin Love Set To Face Cavaliers In Cleveland For First Time Since Leaving: ‘I’d Be Lying If I Said It Wasn’t Emotional’

    NBA champion Kevin Love will face the Cleveland Cavaliers in Cleveland tonight (3/5) for the first time since leaving and joining the Miami Heat. 

    Love was waived by the Cavaliers in February 2023 and joined the Heat as a free agent. 

    “I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t emotional,” Love said. “I mean, I was on the court (Tuesday) night working out and my wife wanted to see her former seats that she used to sit in. And we were just reminiscing a little bit and I said I had such a great relationship from ownership all the way down to the day-to-day people who work with the team.”

    Love appeared in 489 games with the Cavaliers. He averaged 15.7 points, 9.2 rebounds and 2.2 assists and made two All-Star teams. 

    The 36-year-old Love helped the Cavaliers win the 2016 championship against the Golden State Warriors. Cleveland is the only team in NBA history to erase a 3-1 series deficit in the Finals. 

    Love, LeBron James and Kyrie Irving will always be Cavaliers legends for what they accomplished in 2016. LeBron will undoubtedly have his No. 23 jersey retired by the franchise one day. Love (No. 0) and Irving (No. 2) could join The King as well. 

    “One of the things I spoke about with ownership, I said if it is me, I’d be honored to go up next to him in the rafters,” Love said. “We’ll all be pretty close, so yeah, I might be the first one.”

    Love is averaging 5.3 points, 4.3 rebounds and 1.0 assists for the Heat this season while shooting 35.0% from the field, 35.0% from beyond the arc and 68.4% from the free-throw line. He’s appeared in 20 games. 

    A UCLA product, Love has career averages of 16.2 points, 10.0 rebounds and 2.3 assists with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Cavaliers and Heat. He’s made five All-Star teams and two All-NBA teams. 

    Love won the 2010-11 Most Improved Player of the Year Award with the Timberwolves. 

  • Stephen A. Smith Says It’s Time To Retire Michael Jordan-LeBron James GOAT Debate: ‘That’s How Great LeBron Has Been For As Long As He Has Been That Great’

    Stephen A. Smith Says It’s Time To Retire Michael Jordan-LeBron James GOAT Debate: ‘That’s How Great LeBron Has Been For As Long As He Has Been That Great’

    ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith is one of the biggest fans of NBA icon Michael Jordan. He has constantly said that Jordan is the greatest player of all time. 

    However, Smith can’t believe what he’s seeing from LeBron James this season. The Los Angeles Lakers star, who is the oldest player (40) in the NBA, is still putting up elite numbers and he became the first player ever to score 50,000 points on Tuesday (3/4) against the New Orleans Pelicans. 

    The 50,000 points is combining LeBron’s regular season and postseason totals. 

    Smith is not ready to call LeBron the GOAT, but he thinks it’s time to retire the Jordan-LeBron GOAT debate. 

    The GOAT debate between Jordan and LeBron is among the most discussed topics in basketball discourse. 

    Jordan averaged 30.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 2.3 steals and 0.8 blocks with the Chicago Bulls and Washington Wizards. He won five MVPs, one Defensive Player of the Year Award, six championships, six Finals MVPs, three steals titles and 10 scoring titles. 

    Meanwhile, LeBron has career averages of 27.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.5 steals and 0.7 blocks with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Lakers. He’s a four-time MVP, a four-time champion, a four-time Finals MVP, a one-time scoring champion and a one-time assists champion. 

    Jordan is first in NBA history in points per game, fourth in steals, fifth in field goals and second in player efficiency rating. He holds the NBA record for most points (63) scored in a postseason game. 

    LeBron, who grew up idolizing Jordan, is first in NBA history in points, fourth in assists, sixth in steals, second in field goals, seventh in 3-point field goals, fifth in triple-doubles, seventh in points per game and third in player efficiency rating.

    LeBron is the only player in NBA history to rank top five all-time in points and assists, the only player to win three Finals MVPs with three different teams, the only player with 40,000 points, 10,000 rebounds and 10,000 career assists and the only player to score 50,000 points combining the regular season and playoffs.

    No matter who you think the GOAT is, it’s evident that Jordan and LeBron are two of the best to ever do it. 

  • Duncan Robinson’s Impact Goes Beyond Shooting as Heat Continue to Thrive

    Duncan Robinson’s Impact Goes Beyond Shooting as Heat Continue to Thrive

    The Miami Heat and their revamped lineup are at their best when Duncan Robinson is aggressive. The numbers prove it—when Robinson scores at least 20 points, Miami holds a dominant 52-15 record over his seven-year career.

    “When Duncan is aggressive and being himself, I feel like our offense goes to another level,” Heat guard Tyler Herro told the Miami Herald.

    Robinson’s impact isn’t just about knocking down threes. His movement and gravity force defenses into overreactions, creating easier opportunities for teammates. Whether working in a two-man game with Bam Adebayo or flying off screens, Robinson changes the way opponents defend Miami.

    “I know there’s analytics to it now, but there are players where you just know they tilt the defense differently,” head coach Erik Spoelstra said. “Duncan is one of those guys. That’s from years of being deadly coming off screens.”

    Robinson, 30, has embraced that role, understanding that his presence alone can shift the game. It is crucial that Spoelstra and Miami are beginning to value these characteristics, considering Robinson was almost sent to Atlanta in 2024.

    “When shots go in and sometimes even when they don’t, just because of the scouting report and reputation, I can create some overreactions,” Robinson said. “That’s generating offense, too.”

    Now with 30 starts in 55 appearances this season, Robinson has evolved into more than just a three-point specialist. His ability to space the floor and create advantages has become a crucial element in Miami’s offensive success—something that could prove invaluable as the Heat push for another deep playoff run.

  • Dwyane Wade Knew LeBron James Could Leave Heat When Pat Riley Took His Cookies On Plane: ‘It Was Too Much Micromanaging’

    Dwyane Wade Knew LeBron James Could Leave Heat When Pat Riley Took His Cookies On Plane: ‘It Was Too Much Micromanaging’

    NBA legend Dwyane Wade knew LeBron James could leave the Miami Heat when Pat Riley took his cookies on the plane. 

    LeBron left the Heat for the Cleveland Cavaliers in the summer of 2014. 

    LeBron cried in Randy Mims’ driveway a month after leaving the Cavaliers for the Heat in 2010. The forward was away from his family, was getting booed in every road arena and his jersey was getting burned across Northeast Ohio.

    “I’m coming over,” LeBron told Mims, via Dave McMenamin of ESPN. “I need to talk to you. I’m not sure I’m doing this right. I’m not sure I made the right decision to come here.”

    The Heat got off to a slow start in 2010-11 despite having LeBron, Wade and Chris Bosh. 

    “It was just a lot of s— that was just going on in my head,” LeBron told ESPN. “I was still young. … I was questioning myself. I know I probably startled the f— out of him at like three o’clock, four o’clock in the morning. I pulled up and I told him to come outside and I literally sat on the hood of my car. He came out and we just talked things through.”

    LeBron spent four years with the Heat. He won two MVPs, two championships and two Finals MVPs. 

    LeBron, the leading scorer in NBA history, averaged 26.9 points, 7.6 rebounds, 6.7 assists, 1.7 steals and 0.7 blocks with the Heat. Miami will likely retire his No. 6 jersey one day. 

    LeBron has played for the Cavaliers (twice), Heat and Los Angeles Lakers. He’s a four-time MVP, a four-time champion and a four-time Finals MVP. 

    Arguably the best player in NBA history, LeBron is the only player to rank top five all-time in both points and assists. He’s also the lone player to have at least 30,000 points, 10,000 rebounds and 10,000 career assists. 

  • NBA Notes: 76ers, Eric Gordon, Heat, Lakers, Luka Doncic

    NBA Notes: 76ers, Eric Gordon, Heat, Lakers, Luka Doncic

    76ers

    76ers veteran guard Eric Gordon will undergo surgery on his right wrist Wednesday, according to Derek Bodner of PHLY Sports. The team has not provided a timetable for his recovery.Eric Gordon, 76ers, Sixers, NBA

    Gordon, 36, has been sidelined since February 9 due to what was initially diagnosed as a sprained right wrist. After consulting with multiple specialists, the decision to proceed with surgery was made.

    The news adds to a string of setbacks for the struggling 76ers, who have lost eight consecutive games, dropping them 17 games below .500. Gordon has appeared in 39 games (13 starts) this season, averaging 6.8 points and 1.7 assists in 19.7 minutes per contest.

    Gordon signed a two-year, veteran’s minimum contract with the Sixers last offseason and holds a $3,468,960 option for next season. Given his current health situation, Gordon may be more likely to exercise that option before entering free agency.

    Gordon’s injury contributed to the 76ers’ recent decision to sign Lonnie Walker.

    Heat

    Heat forward Nikola Jovic has been diagnosed with a fracture in the second metacarpal of his right hand, the team’s PR department confirmed in a tweet. He will wear a splint and will be re-evaluated in four weeks.

    The injury, which occurred during the first half of Sunday’s game against the Bucks, confirms the initial diagnosis and provides a clearer outlook on his recovery. At this time, surgery is not required.

    With less than two months remaining in the regular season, Jovic’s injury could potentially end his campaign.

    Through 46 games this season, the 21-year-old is averaging 10.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 0.8 steals, with shooting splits of .456/.371/.828.

    Miami exercised Jovic’s $4.45 million team option for the fourth and final year of his rookie-scale contract ahead of the season, keeping him under team control through the 2025-26 campaign. With Jovic sidelined, Kyle Anderson and Jaime Jaquez are expected to take on expanded roles.

    Lakers

    After news broke earlier this month that the Mavericks were trading Luka Doncic to the Lakers in one of the most unexpected deals in recent NBA history, reports began to surface questioning Doncic’s weight and conditioning.

    While the five-time All-NBA guard did not publicly address the leaks, a source close to Doncic tells ESPN’s Dave McMenamin that they have served as a source of motivation for him as he adjusts to his new team.

    “A beast was awakened inside him,” the source said.

    On Tuesday, Doncic will have the chance to face off against the organization that traded him, as the Lakers begin a six-game home stand by hosting a banged-up Mavericks squad. The matchup is expected to be an emotional one, according to Jovan Buha of The Athletic.

    Lakers coach JJ Redick said of Doncic, “I think he’ll be fine. Every day that he’s been with us, it’s becoming a little more normal. I’ve been there. The first time you play your old team, particularly this close in time duration, it’s going to be weird. But he’ll be OK.”

    While the game holds significant meaning for Doncic, his new teammates are also eager to support him as he faces his former team, with forward Dorian Finney-Smith, a former Mavs player, saying, “I’m excited, man. I know (Doncic is) gonna be ready but I try not to put too much pressure on him because at the end of the day, we just want to get the win. We get the win, I know he’s gonna be happy.”

    Doncic, who struggled in his first three games as a Laker after recovering from a calf strain, averaged just 14.7 points on 35.6% shooting. However, he showed signs of his old self on Saturday in Denver, posting 32 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists, and four steals in a 23-point win over the Nuggets.

    Mavs teammates are prepared to see that version of Doncic on Tuesday.

    “I expect him to bring his A-game,” said Mavs forward P.J. Washington, via Mike Curtis of the Dallas Morning News. “Knowing just the player he is, the mentality he brings to the game, I know he’s going to be ready as soon as we get out there. We can’t wait to compete against him. We miss him, but at the end of the day, he’s our brother and we’re always going to love him but we just gotta go out there and compete against him.”

    Mavs guard Kyrie Irving added, “I would love to get into the emotions after the game, but before the game it’s just about having fun and making sure that we lock in and have a deep focus. They’re going to come in and be ready to play against us. Luka’s obviously going to have a lot of confidence in that game. He played well the last game so he’s feeling good. We just have to be aware.”

  • NBA Notes: Caris LeVert, Hawks, Heat, Lineup Changes, Sixers

    NBA Notes: Caris LeVert, Hawks, Heat, Lineup Changes, Sixers

    Hawks

    Dyson Daniels recorded his third game of the season with at least seven steals as the Hawks secured a win over Miami on Monday. Meanwhile, trade deadline acquisitions Caris LeVert, Georges Niang, and Terance Mann provided a significant offensive boost, combining for 41 points off the bench.Caris LeVert, Hawks, NBA

    LeVert, averaging 13.7 points per game, Niang at 15.2 points per game, and Mann, shooting .571 from the field, have all made an immediate impact since their arrivals in Atlanta.

    These new additions have helped the Hawks maintain a strong position in the play-in race, despite sending out key players De’Andre Hunter and Bogdan Bogdanovic before the trade deadline.

    Trae Young praised his new teammates’ aggression after the game, highlighting their ability to take charge when given the opportunity.

    “It makes it way easier whenever you have guys like Caris and Georges who are aggressive, and whenever they get the ball, they’re not hesitant at all,” Young said, via Lauren L. Williams of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. “And even T-Mann hit a big three.”

    The Hawks’ depth continues to prove valuable as they look to secure a spot in the postseason. With LeVert, Niang, and Mann stepping up, Atlanta has shown resilience and offensive firepower in the wake of roster changes.

    Heat

    Heat coach Erik Spoelstra is adjusting his rotation following Nikola Jovic’s hand fracture, which will sideline the forward for an extended period. Jovic had been playing significant minutes, averaging 31.9 per game over his last 10 healthy appearances.

    In his absence, Spoelstra has turned to Kyle Anderson and Jaime Jaquez to fill the void.

    Anderson, a veteran forward, played 28 minutes against Atlanta, the most of any Miami reserve. He scored 14 points, grabbed five rebounds, and was notably active on the free-throw line, attempting 10 shots. Despite Miami’s 12-point loss, Spoelstra praised Anderson’s performance.

    “He gave us some really good minutes,” Spoelstra said, via Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald. “I played him probably a handful more minutes than I anticipated. But he was doing some really good things out there.”

    Meanwhile, Jaquez, who had been out of the rotation in recent games, was given just seven minutes on the floor. The rookie’s role remains uncertain as Spoelstra continues to evaluate his options in light of Jovic’s injury.

    • Another significant change in Miami’s lineup came with the decision to bench guard Terry Rozier, who received his first DNP-CD of the season. Alec Burks played in his place but struggled, making just 1-of-12 shots from the field in 27 minutes.
    • Spoelstra explained the decision to sit Rozier, emphasizing the team’s ongoing search for the right mix. “It’s just one of those things right now,” Spoelstra said. “We’re searching. It’s not an indictment on anybody necessarily. I feel for the guys that haven’t been able to play — Jaime the couple games before this and Terry. It’s not anyone’s fault. We’re all in this together. But we do need to find something. So, I’ll continue to use the depth of our roster, however we feel like we need to.”

    76ers

    • Despite an eight-game losing streak, the 76ers are unlikely to finish the season with a worse record than teams like the Pelicans, Jazz, Hornets, or Wizards, according to John Hollinger of The Athletic. But with the playoffs slipping further out of reach, the 76ers could consider shutting down Paul George and Joel Embiid to improve their draft positioning.
    • If Philadelphia were to fall further in the standings and be surpassed by Toronto, the 76ers would end up with the fifth-worst record in the league. This would give the team a roughly 64% chance of retaining their protected first-round draft pick, which is set to be sent to Oklahoma City if it falls outside the top six. The decision could significantly influence the team’s future, as they look to maintain control over the valuable pick.
    • George reacted strongly to the Sixers’ blowout home loss to the Bulls on Monday. We have that full story here.
  • Warriors’ Gamble On Jimmy Butler Paying Off As Draymond Green Eyes Another NBA Title

    Warriors’ Gamble On Jimmy Butler Paying Off As Draymond Green Eyes Another NBA Title

    The Golden State Warriors are surging at just the right time, and a lot of that has to do with their latest addition—Jimmy Butler. Since acquiring the six-time All-Star from the Miami Heat, the Warriors have gone 5-1, looking like a team capable of making a deep postseason run. Their latest victory, a dominant performance against the Dallas Mavericks, showed just how much Butler has impacted both ends of the floor.

    Draymond Green, never one to shy away from bold declarations, made headlines during All-Star weekend when he stated his expectation to win a fifth championship this spring. When pressed for details, Green credited Butler as the missing link Golden State had been searching for all season.

    “This team all year has been kind of like, ‘Man, we’re right there, but can’t quite get over the hump,’” Green told The Athletic. “And the reason I think we all thought we couldn’t quite get over was because there was a missing piece. That piece isn’t missing anymore. That piece is him.”

    While some within the Warriors organization had concerns about Butler’s reputation and past exits from teams, Green fully endorsed the move. According to The Athletic, Green actively pushed for the front office to bring in another “a–hole” to match the team’s competitive edge.

    “Jimmy almost won the championship leading the team—twice,” Green said. “So he just needed a little bit more to get over the hump. We needed a little more to get over the hump. You mix the two together, and what you get is what everybody’s going to see.”

    Butler, for his part, is letting his play do the talking. When asked about Green’s championship prediction, he downplayed it but acknowledged the team’s newfound belief.

    “I don’t pay attention to social (media), so I didn’t know that (Green) said that,” Butler said. “But we do have a chance. And the reason why is not because I’m here. It’s because everybody thinks that we can win. That’s all that matters.”

    Despite their recent surge, the Warriors remain in the No. 9 seed at 30-27, but they’re just 1.5 games behind the Clippers for the coveted No. 6 spot, which guarantees a playoff berth. Head coach Steve Kerr emphasized how Butler has transformed the team, particularly when Stephen Curry is off the court, an area of concern all season.

    “You can tell our fans see the difference,” Kerr said. “They feel the momentum just like we do. It was an important shift. The trade itself—we needed it. We felt it. We were kind of treading water. We couldn’t get any traction in the season, and (GM) Mike (Dunleavy) sensed it and made the move. Sometimes you’ve got to shake things up. It just so happened that one of the best players in the league was available.”

    With Butler bringing out the best in young players like Brandin Podziemski and Moses Moody, and Green doubling down on the team’s championship mindset, Golden State may have just found the missing ingredient for another NBA title run.

  • Heat Newcomer Andrew Wiggins Showing Signs Of Rise: ‘We Love Having Him Here’

    Heat Newcomer Andrew Wiggins Showing Signs Of Rise: ‘We Love Having Him Here’

    In Friday’s win over Toronto, Heat newcomer Andrew Wiggins demonstrated his ability to carry Jimmy Butler‘s scoring load, taking control late in the game and emerging as a reliable closer in crunch-time situations.Andrew Wiggins, Heat, Thunder, NBA

    Wiggins finished with 25 points, his highest total since being traded, including 13 points in the fourth quarter and overtime.

    “We’re all rooting for Wiggs, man,” Heat guard Tyler Herro said, via Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald. “Great guy, we love having him here. We’re super happy to have him. He’s just going to continue to get more comfortable with everything we’re doing. We’re trying to feed as much life and as much confidence into him as possible. We’re really happy for him.”

    Wiggins, along with fellow trade deadline acquisitions Kyle Anderson and Davion Mitchell, have all adjusted quickly to their new roles in Miami, according to Chiang.

    “I feel like they’re embracing it, they’re embracing the culture, they’re embracing the standard,” said Bam Adebayo. “They understand the majority of what we like to do and how we like to compete. I feel like they’ve embraced it. I feel like they’re up for the challenge. So it’s good to have three guys walking in trying to embrace the culture.”

    Added coach Erik Spoelstra on Wiggins’ late-game play vs. the Raptors: “It was really important. They were draped all over Tyler and we actually were able to get some pretty good mileage on the two-man action between Tyler and Bam. But then they were loading up. So we just were throwing the ball to Wiggs and letting him make some plays. He had two really good post-ups going down the stretch.”

  • NBA Notes: Heat, Revamped Lineup, Wizards, Celtics, All-Star Game

    NBA Notes: Heat, Revamped Lineup, Wizards, Celtics, All-Star Game

    HEAT

    By trading Jimmy Butler, the Heat have enhanced their financial flexibility heading into the offseason, according to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald.Andrew Wiggins, Heat, Thunder, NBA

    Miami now has $176.2 million committed to 12 players for the 2025-26 season, leaving the team approximately $11 million below the projected $187.9 million luxury tax threshold.

    However, this total does not account for restricted free agent guard Davion Mitchell or the $1.9 million team option on rookie forward Keshad Johnson. Additionally, the Heat’s salary commitments do not factor in the potential contracts of first-round draft picks.

    The Heat could further clear cap space by parting with Duncan Robinson’s partially guaranteed contract, potentially unlocking up to $10 million in room. This space could also be utilized in a trade.

    Furthermore, with Butler waiving his $52.4 million player option, which he had been eligible to exercise, the Heat no longer face the possibility of that salary impacting their future plans. Butler’s decision to forgo the option came after signing a two-year extension with Golden State.

    WIZARDS

    The Wizards have signed guard Erik Stevenson to a 10-day contract, the team announced in a press release. In a corresponding move, Washington waived Jaylen Nowell.

    Stevenson, 25, has earned the opportunity after a strong showing in the G League. As a sixth man for the Capital City Go-Go, he is averaging 17.1 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game in 32 appearances this season.

    Stevenson has recorded 20 or more points 15 times and was selected to participate in the G League’s Up Next game.

    A former West Virginia standout, Stevenson was part of training camps with San Antonio in 2023 and Washington in 2024, though he was waived by the Wizards in October. He also played in three Summer League games for Washington in Las Vegas before joining the G League.

    Nowell, who signed a 10-day contract with the Wizards on February 8, did not see any game action. He appeared in eight games for the Pelicans in November, averaging 8.4 points per game in 21.0 minutes.

    Nowell spent the previous four seasons with Minnesota, with brief stints in Memphis and Detroit during the 2023-24 campaign before joining the Go-Go after New Orleans waived him.

    CELTICS

    The Celtics’ bid to host an All-Star Game remains under consideration, despite the team being up for sale, Gary Washburn of the Boston Globe reports. The All-Star Game has not been held in Boston since 1964, and the Celtics’ bid had been paused as the league assesses other scheduling commitments.

    However, with recent upgrades to TD Garden and the construction of additional hotels in the area, NBA commissioner Adam Silver has previously stated that Boston would be an ideal location for a future All-Star weekend.

  • NBA Notes: Nikola Jokic, Mavericks, Knicks, Heat, Tyler Herro

    NBA Notes: Nikola Jokic, Mavericks, Knicks, Heat, Tyler Herro

    MAVERICKS

    Without a doubt, Luka Doncic was blindsided by his trade away from the Mavericks earlier this month. Nuggets center Nikola Jokic, a longtime friend of Doncic, discussed the star’s reaction during his media availability at All-Star Weekend.Luka Doncic, Nikola Jokic, Mavericks, Nuggets, NBA

    “He was building something there,” Jokic said, via Bennett Durando of the Denver Post. “I think he was hurt… I think as a trade, it’s not such a big thing, but if you trade someone like that, I think it kind of becomes a little bit of a big thing, and maybe players become a little bit serious about it.”

    Obviously, the trade marks a significant shift for the Mavericks as they move into a post-Doncic era.

    • Meanwhile, new Mavericks CEO Rick Welts is tasked with leading the franchise’s business side amid these changes. Welts, who has a long history of financial success with the Suns and Warriors, spoke candidly about the magnitude of the decision. “I thought I’d seen everything in my 47 years in the NBA, but clearly this was different,” Welts said. “I probably underestimated the reaction. I think we’ve done the best we can, basically, with the staff and trying to do the right thing with everybody who touches the Mavericks.”
    • Adding to the drama in Dallas, Mavericks assistant coach Darrell Armstrong was arrested early Saturday morning for alleged aggravated assault with a weapon. According to Dallas police, Armstrong and the victim were involved in a dispute when Armstrong struck the victim with a gun and threatened to shoot. Armstrong has been placed on administrative leave while the investigation continues.

    KNICKS

    Knicks center Karl-Anthony Towns is enjoying perhaps his best season to date as the team entered the All-Star break.

    Speaking with Stefan Bondy of the New York Post, Towns discussed his transition from Minnesota to New York and the success he’s found with his new team.

    “Of course, you always want better,” Towns said. “But I’m just happy that I was able to implement myself into the team and that it resulted in winning. You guys were telling me the stats of having the best record going into the All-Star break since [the Knicks’ last championship season in 1973]. Hopefully, history coincides with that and brings a ring with it.”

    The Knicks are currently 36-18, sitting just 2.5 games behind the No. 2-seeded Boston Celtics. Towns has fit in seamlessly with fellow All-Star Jalen Brunson, and he’s content with his role as the team’s second option behind Brunson, who was named team captain in August.

    Despite sharing the spotlight, Towns is still putting up impressive numbers, averaging 24.7 points, 13.4 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, solidifying his place as a key contributor to New York’s success.

    HEAT

    Heat guard Tyler Herro earned his first All-Star selection for the 2024-25 season and added to his accolades by winning his first Three-Point Contest on Saturday night. Herro defeated Buddy Hield and Darius Garland in the final round, showcasing his sharpshooting skills.

    As Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun Sentinel reports, Herro’s maturity has been a key factor in his success this season, especially after enduring trade rumors throughout much of his career. He credits a shift in his mental approach for his standout performances.

    “I think it comes with being OK with everything, trying to be at peace,” Herro said. “I try to work on myself off the court just as much as I was working on the court. So just being at peace, having my kids, my girl, I’ve got everything I need. So just being able to stay present.”

  • ‘Michael Wanted Everything Done For Him, LeBron Does Everything’: Scottie Pippen Wrote Michael Jordan ‘Ruined Basketball’ And LeBron James Is ‘The Greatest Player This Game Has Ever Seen’

    ‘Michael Wanted Everything Done For Him, LeBron Does Everything’: Scottie Pippen Wrote Michael Jordan ‘Ruined Basketball’ And LeBron James Is ‘The Greatest Player This Game Has Ever Seen’

    In his book, Scottie Pippen wrote that NBA icon Michael Jordan — the player he won six rings with on the Chicago Bulls — “ruined basketball.”

    Pippen also wrote that LeBron James “was the greatest player this game has ever seen.”

    “I may go as far to say Mike ruined basketball,” Pippen wrote. “In the ’80s, on the playgrounds, you’d have everyone moving the ball around — passing to help the team. That stopped in the ’90s. Kids wanted to be ‘Like Mike.’ Well, Mike didn’t want to pass — didn’t want to rebound, or defend the best player. He wanted everything done for him. That’s why I always believed LeBron James was the greatest player this game has ever seen — he does everything and embodies what the game is truly about.”

    After “The Last Dance” doc came out in 2020, Pippen began bashing Jordan.

    Pippen was frustrated with how “The Last Dance” turned out.

    Jordan had editorial control over the doc.

    “On and on it went, the spotlight shining on number 23,” Pippen wrote. “Even in the second episode, which focused for a while on my difficult upbringing and unlikely path to the NBA, the narrative returned to MJ and his determination to win. I was nothing more than a prop. His ‘best teammates of all time,’ he called me. He couldn’t have been more condescending if he tried.

    “On second thought, I could believe my eyes. I spent a lot of time around the man. I knew what made him tick. How naive I was to expect anything else. Each episode was the same: Michael on a pedestal, his teammates secondary, smaller, the message no different from when he referred to us back then as his ‘supporting cast.’ From one season to the next, we received little or no credit whenever we won but the bulk of the criticism when we lost. Michael could shoot 6 for 24 from the field, commit 5 turnovers, and he was still, in the minds of the adoring press and public, the Errorless Jordan.”

    The GOAT debate between Jordan and LeBron is among the most discussed topics in basketball discourse. 

    Jordan averaged 30.1 points, 6.2 rebounds, 5.3 assists, 2.3 steals and 0.8 blocks with the Bulls and Washington Wizards. He won five MVPs, one Defensive Player of the Year Award, six championships, six Finals MVPs, three steals titles and 10 scoring titles. 

    Meanwhile, LeBron has career averages of 27.1 points, 7.5 rebounds, 7.4 assists, 1.5 steals and 0.7 blocks with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Miami Heat and Los Angeles Lakers. He’s a four-time MVP, a four-time champion, a four-time Finals MVP, a one-time scoring champion and a one-time assists champion. 

    Jordan is first in NBA history in points per game, fourth in steals, fifth in field goals and second in player efficiency rating. He holds the NBA record for most points (63) scored in a postseason game. 

    LeBron, who grew up idolizing Jordan, is first in NBA history in points, fourth in assists, sixth in steals, second in field goals, seventh in 3-point field goals, fifth in triple-doubles, seventh in points per game and third in player efficiency rating.

    LeBron is the only player in NBA history to rank top five all-time in points and assists, the only player to win three Finals MVPs with three different teams, the only player with 30,000 points, 10,000 rebounds and 10,000 assists and the only player to score 40,000 points. 

    Pippen and Jordan are the best duo in NBA history. They went 6-0 in the NBA Finals. 

    However, they are no longer on speaking terms. 

  • Source: Spurs, Rockets, Lakers, Heat To Pursue Kevin Durant Trade In Offseason

    Source: Spurs, Rockets, Lakers, Heat To Pursue Kevin Durant Trade In Offseason

    The San Antonio Spurs, Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat will pursue a Kevin Durant trade this offseason, an NBA source told Hoops Wire. 

    The Phoenix Suns almost traded Durant at this year’s trade deadline and Durant wasn’t happy about it. 

    The Golden State Warriors had a deal to acquire Durant, but KD blocked it because he didn’t want to play for the Warriors again. 

    NBA reporter Brian Windhorst of ESPN believes Durant will “probably” get traded by the Suns this summer. 

    “He’s probably going to get traded this summer,” Windhorst said. “He knows it. The Suns know it. The rest of the league knows it. They’re going to enjoy him while they have him. It’s not really controversial in all honesty. They’re under .500. They have a $230 million payroll, then add over $100 million on tax on top of that.”

    One of the best players in NBA history, Durant is making $51.2 million this season. He’ll make $54.7 million next season in the final year of his contract. 

    According to Windhorst and Ramona Shelburne, Durant was open to getting traded to the Heat at this year’s trade deadline. 

    “Durant, however, would have been open to playing for the Heat, sources said, so Miami debated cutting the Warriors out completely and dealing Jimmy Butler to Phoenix for Durant, sources said,” Shelburne and Windhorst wrote. “Pat Riley, after all, had wanted Durant for years. In 2016, Riley landed one of the famous meetings in the Hamptons where Durant took pitches from various teams and the Warriors closed by getting Stephen Curry to sell Durant on a partnership. Riley had tried again in 2019 when Durant left Golden State for the Brooklyn Nets but ended up pulling off a shrewd sign-and-trade for Butler that summer instead.

    “It was there to be done, Durant to Miami, and the teams traded proposals, sources said. But Phoenix, which paid for Durant in 2023 with four first-round picks and three pick swaps to Brooklyn, was seeking significant compensation for the player, who is now 36 and under contract for just one more season. Ultimately, Miami felt it would be mortgaging its future by going down the path with Durant, sources said, and they decided not to move forward in the talks. The third attempt to land Durant would not be the charm for Riley and Heat.”

    Durant is a four-time scoring champion, a two-time champion, a two-time Finals MVP and a one-time regular-season MVP.

    The future Hall of Famer has played for the Oklahoma City Thunder, Warriors, Brooklyn Nets and Suns.

    Durant, who turns 37 next season, is averaging 27.3 points, 6.0 rebounds and 4.2 assists this season while shooting 53.2% from the field, 40.4% from 3 and 82.5% from the free-throw line.