3 potential Danilo Gallinari free agency destinations
3. Miami Heat
Initially, the Miami Heat make sense as a possible destination for Danilo Gallinari this offseason.
During the 2019-20 NBA season, the Heat were only averaging 112.2 points per game, amongst the middle pack of the league (15th in the NBA).
Before the 2020 trade deadline passed, Miami was in business to add more weapons to their roster in hopes of improving their chances as a title contender. Danilo Gallinari was one of their targets.
According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Heat were deeply engaged with the Thunder on acquiring Gallinari at the moment.
Memphis and Miami are focusing on a two-team deal on Andre Iguodala, with Miami and Oklahoma City still unable to reach an agreement on a three-team trade that would land Danilo Gallinari with the Heat, league sources tell ESPN. Talks are fluid until 3 PM.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 6, 2020
Miami ended up acquiring Andre Iguodala from Memphis but wasn’t able to reach an agreement with Gallinari since they were unable to agree on a contract extension. Despite not being able to come to terms on a contract extension in February, there could be mutual interest again when 2020 free agency hits.
Gallinari would be a comfortable fit in Miami and would transition smoothly into head coach Erik Spoelstra’s offense. The Heat could value a solid stretch four that can effectively space the floor offensively. Gallinari perfectly fits that description.
Gallinari at the power forward position would allow breakout All-Star Bam Adebayo to play more at center, where he thrives the most. He would compliment the playmaking abilities of Jimmy Butler along with Miami’s efficient shooters such as Tyler Herro and Duncan Robinson.
The fit is ideal for a starting stretch four like Gallinari in Miami. However, the issue that could resurface could be coming to terms on a contract. The best-case scenario for both parties in this situation would be a one-year deal.
Why? Because the Heat are expected to prioritize their cap space in 2021 where there will be a more loaded free-agent class that includes multiple superstars. It would also allow Gallinari to potentially make more money beyond next year and sign a larger contract in 2021.
If Gallinari and the Heat can successfully agree to terms on a contract this time around, South Beach could be the destination he chooses in free agency.