It’s been a successful offseason for the Miami Heat. Pat Riley has added a potential star of the future in Kasparas Jakucionis and a high-level contributor in Norman Powell. He also re-signed Davion Mitchell to a new deal.
Nevertheless, there are still some concerns regarding the overall depth at the point guard position. That’s why Andy Bailey of Bleacher Report believes the Heat could potentially “rescue” Russell Westbrook from free agency.
The 2017 MVP is currently an unrestricted free agent, having left the Denver Nuggets at the end of last season. And while Westbrook isn’t the force of nature he once was, he’s still a reliable ball-handler, playmaker and interior scorer.
“The Miami Heat’s point guard rotation is largely populated by combo or shooting guards,” Bailey wrote. “Right now, it looks like Tyler Herro could be the starter at the 1…Having a real, veteran point guard on the roster could stabilize a second unit that figures to include lots of younger talents like Jaime Jaquez Jr., Nikola Jović and Davion Mitchell.
In lineups with Herro and Norman Powell, Westbrook’s ability to drag defenders to the paint as a driver could create precious extra time for those shooters outside, too.”
Westbrook played in 75 games last season, averaging 13.3 points, 4.9 rebounds and 6.1 assists per game. Miami could certainly use that type of production, especially from a player coming off the bench.
Riley Isn’t Against Adding an Aging Player
During a recent news conference, Riley refused to rule out the idea of adding a veteran talent to the Heat’s roster.
“I think an aging great player, who may not be able to carry a team together, can rise to the occasion in the playoffs,” Riley said. “…I still think that an aging player can play. Look at LeBron [James]. I mean, look at these players. It’s incredible. Players like LeBron and others who have played into their mid to late 30s and produced at a high level can help teams win championships. You have to pick out the right one, but I’m not against that, no.”
Westbrook will be entering his age-36 season in the coming months. He will turn 37 before the 2026 postseason ends. However, as Riley has shown on multiple occasions, age won’t be a defining factor in his decision whether to sign a player or not.
Norman Powell Eyeing Big Role With Miami
During a recent appearance on Sirius XM NBA Radio, Powell discussed the opportunity he has with the Heat next season.
“I’m really excited about the opportunity that’s in front of me,” Powell said. “I think it’s a clear opportunity that I’ve been fighting for and talking about. I talked about all last year about having the opportunity to be a focal point every single night, not just a high-value contributing role player, but really seeing myself and stepping into a role that I’ve always wanted.”
Regardless of whether Westbrook joins the Heat this summer, Powell will find himself in a key role for Miami, especially in terms of offense. His perimeter scoring, ability to pressure the rim and tertiary playmaking will all be huge additions to Erik Spoelstra’s rotation.
Of course, adding a high-level table-setter is never a bad thing, and that’s where Westbrook could come into the equation.
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