The Miami Heat got absolutely crushed by the Cleveland Cavaliers last night, losing 126-106. This beatdown came despite the Cavs missing key players like Darius Garland and Dean Wade. Meanwhile, Miami was healthy but still without Jimmy Butler due to his suspension.
Here are the main takeaways:
• Cleveland dominated Miami in the paint, outscoring them 68-38. That 30-point difference was the story of the game.
• Donovan Mitchell carved up Miami’s defense, reminding Heat fans what could have been if they’d landed him in a trade.
• The Cavs showed what true versatility looks like - their 3-point shot wasn’t falling, but it didn’t matter because they dominated inside.
• Cleveland’s frontcourt of Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen is the model for what Miami hopes Bam Adebayo and Khalil Ware can become.
• This game was a reality check for Ware, exposing how far he still has to go as a rookie against elite bigs.
In Jimmy Butler trade news, the Golden State Warriors have entered the chat. According to The Athletic, the Warriors are showing increased interest in Butler now that his price has potentially dropped.
A potential framework could involve Andrew Wiggins going to Toronto, with Bruce Brown and his expiring contract coming to Miami. This would give the Heat the cap flexibility they want while also netting them a solid player and likely draft picks.
The key question is whether Miami would prefer Wiggins on a longer deal or Brown’s expiring contract. Wiggins is the better player, but Brown fits the Heat culture mold better and provides more near-term flexibility.
Either way, it’s clear the Heat are ready to move on from Butler and are looking for the best deal available. The Warriors, Suns, Bucks and Grizzlies keep coming up as potential suitors.
At the end of the day, it’s hard to fully judge this Heat team when they’re missing $50 million in salary with Butler suspended. But they still have enough talent to contend for a playoff spot if they can weather this storm.
