NBA trade rumors: Miami Heat free agency targets said to focus on 3-point score capacity
Miami Heat is reportedly on the look out for 5 free agent players with a particular ability in 3-point shooting after finishing last season with a 3-point goal percentage of 33.6.
According to Sportsrageous, the move reflects a shift in game strategy, with the 3-point shots becoming an increasingly important focal point in securing victories on the court.
Hence they are scouting for players in the free agency market who can bring up that percentage score on last season and maximize the points they are getting out of their team. With a few strategic trade-ins they may be able to add some mileage onto what they are currently getting.
Sportsrageous says the South Beach team may go for the Washington Wizards small forward Jared Anthony Dudley, an excellent 3-point shooter measuring 6-foot 7-inches and 225 pounds. His track record in the last season was strong, with 42 percent of his shots being long range.
Then there's the LA Clippers shooting guard, with a career percentage of 34.9 on 3-point range shots, although he would be a more expensive buy for Miami.
Another expensive purchase would be the Charlotte Hornets shooting guard Nicolas Batum, but he would be worth the investment as he is highly effective in the chase-down block and defence, with a 36 percent score in 3-point shots.
Miami have been interested in signing Kevin Durant but it seems the power forward is ready to stay put with Oklahoma City Thunder on a short-term contract. Pity, as he's a great 3-point shooter with a 38 percent career average.
Miami also reportedly have their eye on Charlotte Hornets center Al Jefferson if Hassan Whiteside decides not to stick around.
According to Yibada, Miami Heat will not be able to give him the max salary he can now command thanks to a stellar season of high scores (14.2 in scoring, 11.8 in rebounds, 3.7 in shot blocks).
He is due a considerable pay increase from Miami but it's possible that teams with bigger budgets, like the L.A. Lakers, New York Knicks, or Dallas Mavericks my snap him up with a more rewarding contract.
