NBA Trade Rumors: 15 Teams That Should Trade For Al Horford

4. Miami Heat

The Miami Heat are listening to offers for Hassan Whiteside, which makes complete sense given the fact that A) he’s due for a massive payday this summer, B) he might not be worth that payday despite being the league’s leading shot-blocker and C) he’s already a head case on a salary of $981,348. What, his attitude is supposed to improve once he’s being paid like a multimillionaire?

That may be concerning for the Hawks, who would be trading a high-character guy like Horford for a regular threat to start an in-game fight. But perhaps the change of scenery and increased responsibility in a new environment would help Whiteside access his more mature side.

Though he doesn’t even come close to spreading the floor like Horford, Whiteside’s shot-blocking is undeniable and he’d certainly help on the glass for one of the league’s worst rebounding teams.

The Heat, meanwhile, would be bonafide title contenders with Horford alongside Chris Bosh in the frontcourt — though it’s worth noting that Bosh’s latest health scare could put a dent in Miami’s postseason aspirations. Either way, Pat Riley would have a decent chance of re-signing Horford this summer given the allure of South Beach, Bosh, Dwyane Wade and an easier path to the Finals.

However, there’d be no guarantee that Whiteside would want to re-sign with Atlanta this summer since any team can offer him the max (Miami doesn’t own his Bird Rights). Trading Luol Deng to help balance salaries would also thrust Justise Winslow into the starting role — something he might not be ready for on the offensive end, even with his stellar defense.

Or, if that’s not crazy enough for you, maybe a three-team trade including the Houston Rockets would be good fun for everyone:

Next: No. 3