Miami Heat could have interest in trading for All-Star guard

The Miami Heat could be interested in acquiring Donovan Mitchell. The All-Star guard has two years remaining on his current $163 million contract, with the final year being a player option. However, the Cleveland Cavaliers have failed to convince Mitchell to sign a contract extension with the franchise. His reluctance to commit his future to Cleveland has led to speculation that Mitchell could leave the team in the summer of 2025. 

Jeff Zillgitt of USA Today believes the Heat could be a potential landing spot for Mitchell. 

"If the Cavaliers decide to trade All-Star guard Donovan Mitchell, it will be a major move for the Cavs and the team acquiring him – perhaps Brooklyn, New York or Miami (the Heat have been looking for a combo guard and have long had their eyes on Mitchell)," Zillgitt wrote. "The Cavaliers traded for Mitchell with the hopes he would re-sign with them. But he has not signed an extension."

The New York Knicks have long been rumored to be the preferred destination for Mitchell. He is from the city and would likely relish playing in front of his hometown crowd. The Heat have a reputation for putting competitive teams on the floor, though. If Mitchell wants to challenge for an NBA championship, moving to South Beach could be a smart career move. 

Mitchell, 27, would be an ideal fit for the Heat. His clutch-time offense would take some of the pressure off of Jimmy Butler's shoulders. He is also young enough to be the star of the franchise for multiple years. Of course, his career averages of 24.8 points, 4.3 rebounds and 4.5 assists on 44.9% shooting from the field and 36.4% shooting from three-point range would also be enticing. 

After spending the summer chasing Damian Lillard, Miami might be eager to avoid another trade saga and wait until Mitchell becomes available via trade as his contract continues to whittle down. Until then, Miami will continue to build around the stars at their disposal and likely try to accumulate some trade assets. 

Mitchell won't come cheap, either via trade or in free agency. Any interested team will need to begin preparing for a bidding war now so they're ready when the time comes.