Miami Heat: 3 fascinating trade scenarios for James Johnson

1. Chicago Bulls

This move would represent a second tour of duty in the Windy City for Johnson, who spent a season and a half in Chicago after being drafted by the Bulls in 2009.

As part of the deal, the Bulls would be parting with center Robin Lopez, whose current deal expires at the end of next season. With Lopez’s departure and Johnson’s arrival, this would enable the Bulls to slot in seven-footer Lauri Markkanen more regularly at that spot.

Although he performed exceptionally well at the 4-spot last season as a rookie, the Bulls could further utilize his incredible versatility and ability to stretch the floor as a truly modern-day center.

In addition to Johnson, the Heat would be forced to part with forward Justise Winslow. The combination of relieving themselves of Johnson’s contract, in addition to the contributions Lopez can still make on a regular basis means this is the unfortunate cost of doing business this summer. Ultimately, the Bulls will be receiving an elite young talent in Winslow, who, along with Markannen, has the potential of being the nucleus of the next great Bulls team.

With the Heat most likely being proactive this summer in parting ways with center Hassan Whiteside, Lopez represents a terrific option to plug in down low. Also, the Heat would also be receiving the versatile Denzel Valentine in order to be compensated for the loss of Winslow.

Valentine showed steady signs of progress in his second NBA seasons, and could be slotted in at three different positions depending on Erik Spoelstra’s lineups and what the roster looks like next year.

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So while the loss of Winslow is far from ideal, the combination of future cap relief, while also adding two important pieces, means this is a deal the Heat should seriously consider.