1. The Source of the Speculation
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Jeff Teague, a former player with insight into NBA operations, suggested that the Heat might use Herro as a “trade piece” for bigger moves.
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According to Teague, a potential trade partner could be the Milwaukee Bucks, with the deal including Bobby Portis, whom Teague describes as a “Heat-type player.”
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Teague also mentioned “pay Norman Powell,” hinting that the Heat could rely on Powell as a key contributor in Herro’s absence.
2. Miami Heat’s Current Situation
To evaluate the trade speculation, several factors should be considered:
a) Tyler Herro – Value and Risks
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Herro had a breakout season, averaging 23.9 points, 5.5 assists, and 5.2 rebounds per game, earning his first All-Star selection.
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However, he recently underwent left ankle surgery for posterior impingement, expected to sideline him for 8–12 weeks at the start of the season.
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Contract-wise, Herro has two years remaining before free agency, but re-signing him could strain Miami’s salary cap.
b) Norman Powell – The Alternative
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Miami acquired Norman Powell in a three-team trade.
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Powell has expressed willingness to take some scoring pressure off Herro, indicating a supportive team role.
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Analysts say Powell is delivering career-high efficiency, providing the Heat with a viable alternative in the backcourt.
3. Is Teague’s Prediction Plausible?
There are arguments both for and against a potential Herro trade:
Supporting Factors:
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Salary and contract concerns: Trading Herro could free up cap space for larger moves.
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Powell’s performance: Heat are performing well without relying solely on Herro.
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Trade value: Herro is young and talented, likely to command significant assets in return.
Counterpoints:
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All-Star caliber talent: Herro’s performance makes him a cornerstone player.
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Team culture and image: Trading him could affect the Heat’s identity.
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Uncertainty in trade return: It’s unclear if assets like Bobby Portis and other pieces fully match Herro’s value.
4. Expert Opinions & Forecast
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Some analysts suggest Miami could leverage Herro as a trade asset to acquire breakthrough talent or future draft picks.
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Others argue the Heat should retain Herro due to his potential and role alongside Bam Adebayo.
5. Conclusion
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Jeff Teague presents a bold scenario: trading Tyler Herro to the Milwaukee Bucks for Bobby Portis and “something else,” while relying on Norman Powell.
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Currently, there is no official report confirming that Miami is actively negotiating such a deal.
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While Herro’s future with the Heat is uncertain, Miami must weigh keeping a young star versus using his trade value to reshape the roster for championship contention.
