Miami Heat Dangle Andrew Wiggins and No. 20 Pick in Trade Talks to Bolster Core Around Herro and Adebayo
The Miami Heat are back in the trade spotlight, and this time they’re making bold moves. According to NBA insider Brett Siegel, Miami has made veteran wing Andrew Wiggins available in trade talks while also dangling the No. 20 overall pick in the upcoming NBA Draft as they look for key roster upgrades. The goal? Surrounding cornerstone pieces Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo with the right supporting cast to compete in an increasingly tough Eastern Conference.
This development comes after the Heat reportedly failed to land Kevin Durant in a blockbuster move that would have dramatically reshaped their championship outlook. Now, with the Durant sweepstakes in the rearview, Miami is pivoting—determined not to waste another season of Adebayo’s defensive prime or Herro’s offensive upside.
A Calculated Gamble
Wiggins, a former No. 1 overall pick and NBA champion with the Golden State Warriors, was acquired by Miami in a prior deal aimed at bringing veteran stability and two-way versatility to the wing. But after a season marred by inconsistency, lingering injuries, and a diminished offensive role, Wiggins’ future in Miami has come into question. At 29, he still offers perimeter defense and can contribute offensively when given the right usage. Yet his $26 million contract and streaky play may be better utilized as a trade chip.
By attaching the No. 20 pick, the Heat are signaling their willingness to be aggressive. While that pick isn’t a franchise-changer on its own, it could be an appealing sweetener for teams looking to retool with young talent or move off veteran contracts. It’s a classic Heat move—leveraging every asset possible to remain relevant in the postseason picture.
Searching for the Right Fit
With Jimmy Butler’s future uncertain and persistent questions about whether he’ll be extended, Miami seems to be subtly shifting toward a build centered more definitively around Herro and Adebayo. Herro averaged 20.8 points per game last season despite missing extended time with injury, while Adebayo remained one of the most impactful big men in the league. The Heat clearly believe this duo can be the foundation for future success, but they need help—particularly on the wing and at point guard.
The ideal return? A two-way playmaker or a scoring wing who can relieve Herro of primary offensive creation duties and stretch the floor for Adebayo’s interior game. Miami is known for its developmental system, but they appear to want immediate help, not another multi-year project.
Potential Suitors
So who could bite on Wiggins and the No. 20 pick? Several teams come to mind. The Atlanta Hawks, entering a retooling phase, could entertain a deal involving veterans like De’Andre Hunter or Bogdan Bogdanović. The Portland Trail Blazers may also be willing to discuss Jerami Grant in the right scenario, particularly if Miami includes future picks or young talent like Nikola Jović or Jaime Jaquez Jr.
Another name to monitor is Malcolm Brogdon of the Portland Trail Blazers, who could bring stability and playoff poise to the Heat’s backcourt. Miami may also explore reunion possibilities with Kyle Kuzma or try to pry away a high-upside wing from a team like the Utah Jazz or Toronto Raptors.
The Clock is Ticking
With the 2025 NBA Draft approaching and free agency looming, Miami’s front office, led by Pat Riley and GM Andy Elisburg, has little time to waste. The Eastern Conference is getting stronger, with the Knicks, Celtics, and Pacers making strides. If the Heat want to avoid being left behind, making the right deal now could set the tone for a new era of Heat basketball—one that leans into the growth of Herro and Adebayo, while reloading with smart veteran pieces.
One thing is clear: The Miami Heat aren’t sitting idle. The chase for upgrades has begun.
