Heat considering roster options outside of LeBron James pursuit

The Heat still have work to do.

With just 12 players on standard contracts, Miami is expected to add at least two more before opening night. According to Barry Jackson and Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald, team president Pat Riley has identified three priorities — another playmaker, a reliable three-point shooter and a big man who can either stretch the floor or protect the rim.

LeBron James, of course, remains the biggest name linked to Miami and would check the box as the additional playmaker if he ultimately decides to head back to South Beach.

If that doesn’t happen, though, DeMar DeRozan has emerged as a possible alternative, according to the Herald. However, the report added that the Heat have not committed to pursuing the veteran forward should James land elsewhere.

Miami is also reportedly keeping an eye on shooters.

The Herald reports the Heat remain interested in Klay Thompson, though there has been no indication the Mavericks are willing to buy out the veteran guard. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Buddy Hield are also viewed as potential fits, though either would likely need to become available before Miami could make a move. Free agent Bradley Beal is another player who could help address the team’s perimeter shooting.

Meanwhile, the Herald noted there has been some league chatter suggesting Kevin Love could follow James to Miami if the four-time MVP chooses the Heat.

At this point, however, the Heat have not actively pursued that scenario, according to the report.