Heat didn’t think this All-Star was an improvement over Tyler Herro

The Miami Heat didn’t throw their hat into the Bradley Beal sweepstakes. According to Zach Lowe on a recent episode of “The Lowe Post Podcast,” Miami didn’t feel that Beal was an improvement over Tyler Herro.

Beal ended up being traded to the Phoenix Suns. He will team up with Kevin Durant and Devin Booker. The Suns are seen as contenders for the 2024 NBA championship.

Miami spent the summer pining after Damian Lillard. They failed to secure their All-Star target. Lillard is now with the Milwaukee Bucks.

Miami’s hyperfocus on Lillard saw their roster weaken over the offseason. Gabe Vincent joined the Los Angeles Lakers and Max Strus went to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Both players were key contributors in the Heat’s run to the 2023 NBA Finals.

Beal may not represent a huge upgrade over Herro; however, he is a genuine All-Star talent who thrives when leading an offense. Miami has also spent the summer trying to trade Herro. There could be a fractious relationship that needs healing.

Still, Miami likely made the right choice. Beal had failed to lead the Washington Wizards to a postseason appearance since Russell Westbrook left in 2021.

He also doesn’t fit the “Miami mold” of being a gritty competitor that has an “in your face” on-court attitude. Lillard does. That’s why Pat Riley wanted Lillard so badly.

Miami will now be forced to wait for the next disgruntled star to hit the trade market. It would appear there is no interest in James Harden. As such, the Heat could face a difficult start to the season. However, that is what could spur them into action as the trade deadline approaches in early 2024.

Herro may still find himself with a new team by the end of the season. As long as the Heat views the return as a legitimate upgrade.