If you’ve been following the Miami Heat’s offseason chatter, you’ve seen the Tyler Herro debate reignite.

Pat Riley’s recent comments have stirred the pot, suggesting Herro is a big part of the franchise’s future. But with a hefty contract extension looming, the question is: Can Miami afford to keep him, or is he better suited as a trade asset?

Herro’s journey with the Heat has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. At just 25, he’s already made waves as a one-time All-Star, averaging nearly 24 points per game last season. His knack for knocking down 3s has placed him among the league’s elite shooters. But is he the player to build a franchise around? That’s the $150 million-dollar question.

“He’s pivotal for us as an offensive player,” Riley said at last week’s press conference. “I hope he can stay here the rest of his career.”

Heat view Herro as a key piece.

Riley’s comments hint at a long-term vision with Herro, but the financial implications are significant. Herro is eligible for a three-year, $150 million extension starting Oct. 1. This isn’t just about the money; it’s about the direction the franchise wants to take.

Herro’s trade value has presumably increased after his stellar season. He’s no longer just a sixth man or a microwave scorer. He’s evolved into a player who can thrive alongside dominant scorers, spacing the floor and making clutch shots. This transformation has made him an attractive piece for teams looking to add a dynamic scorer to their roster.

Imagine a team like the Oklahoma City Thunder, who might see Herro as the missing piece to complement their young core. With a treasure trove of draft picks, they could make a compelling offer to Miami. Herro’s ability to play off stars like Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren would be a dream scenario for any team looking to space the floor for its star players.

But what about Miami’s own aspirations? Can the Heat build a championship contender around Herro and Bam Adebayo? The consensus is that while Herro is a valuable piece, he may not be the No. 1 option on a title-winning team. The Heat would need to add an alpha scorer, a true shot creator, to elevate their roster to championship contention.

The idea of a “Big Three” in Miami, featuring Herro, Adebayo, and a superstar, is tantalizing. However, the financial and logistical challenges of assembling such a trio are daunting. The Heat’s front office must navigate the complexities of the salary cap while ensuring they have the depth and talent to compete with the top teams in the East.

For instance, how would the Heat build around Herro, Adebayo and Kevin Durant in a scenario where they could land Durant without giving up one of their top two players? Would they be willing to remain a luxury tax team in order to re-sign Davion Mitchell and flesh out the roster with depth?

Herro’s future in Miami is a topic that will continue to generate discussion. Whether he remains a key part of the Heat’s plans or becomes a valuable trade asset, his importance to the franchise is undeniable. As the Heat look to the future, the decisions they make regarding Herro will shape the team’s trajectory.

The debate over Herro’s role and value is an oldie, but a goodie. It’s also far from over. As Miami weighs its options, one thing is clear: Herro is a player who commands attention, both on and off the court.