Miami Heat should let young core develop before considering trade options

There has speculation the Miami Heat could make an in-season trade but could impact chemistry

At 24-9, the Miami Heat are off to their best start since the Big Three era of Chris Bosh, LeBron James and Dwyane Wade.

Even though they are in third place in the Eastern Conference standings, it hasn’t stopped the speculation of potential ways they can improve the team through a trade. Several players including Kendrick, Nunn, Justise Winslow, Dion Waiters and James Johnson have been linked in possible trades. The most popular target out there is New Orleans Pelicans guard Jrue Holiday, who reportedly has interest in joining Miami.

The Heat had a busier than expected offseason when they traded Hassan Whiteside and Josh Richardson for Jimmy Butler and Meyers Leonard. With that said, they should remain quiet during the regular season so their pieces can continue gaining comfort around each other.

The young core of Nunn, Tyler Herro and Duncan Robinson are just starting to show their potential. It would be wise for team president Pat Riley to stand pat in trade talks. This team need an opportunity to show more growth.

Last summer the Heat made it clear they were removing Bam Adebayo from the trading block. The refusal to part with him was the key reason they did not land Russell Westbrook and Chris Paul during free agency. The Heat should take a similar stance with Nunn, Herro and Duncan, who are all putting up solid seasons. All three could find themselves competing in some capacity at NBA All-Star Weekend.

Skeptics feel the Heat aren’t talented enough to compete with the Boston Celtics, Toronto Raptors, Milwaukee Bucks and Philadelphia 76ers. Even if that is true, the Heat still have plenty flexibility heading into free agency next summer. Give this group time. If it doesn’t work this year, then start exploring other options of adding another superstar.