The Heat should prioritize adding Damian Lillard, not Joel Embiid

The Miami Heat once again find themselves in the middle of many trade rumors. Miami is expected to trade for disgruntled Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard after he requested a trade, but the Heat are also reportedly waiting on 76ers' Joel Embiid to do the same.

Embiid trade rumors have escalated recently as a result of James Harden demanding a trade from Philadelphia. After failing to make it past the second round in his career, many believe that the reigning MVP will not last much longer on the 76ers without a long-term co-star to compete with.

If Embiid were to request a trade, Miami would be one of his top destinations. Embiid has had a good relationship with Jimmy Butler since the time they played together in Philly. The Heat also have the ability to offer a package centered around two-time All-Star Bam Adebayo.

While Embiid is certainly an intriguing target for Miami, the Heat should prioritize adding Lillard. While Dame has openly expressed his desire to play for the Heat, Embiid has not yet requested a trade. For now, it appears he plans to stay in the city of brotherly love.

Lillard is also a better fit with the roster the Heat currently have in place. While Embiid's shot-blocking ability is likely to be coveted by Miami's front office, his ability to stretch the floor isn't as proficient as Lillard's. Although both players would provide a much-needed huge scoring boost for the Heat, Dame's shot-creating ability would fit better in a system featuring Butler and Adebayo.

Embiid's durability and performance in the playoffs are also in question. He has missed four key playoff games over the last two seasons, averaging just under 24 points per game over that stretch. This is a significant drop off from the 33.1 points per game he averaged in the regular season to earn the MVP award. His efficiency also dropped, shooting only 43 percent from the field in nine playoff games last postseason. 

The Heat's Adebayo has experienced some small statistical declines in the playoffs but played a significant role in helping the Heat reach two NBA Finals over the last four seasons. The Heat should think twice about giving up such a player to take a gamble on Embiid and his health.