The Miami Heat is one of the teams that have declared full pursuit for Kevin Durant.
This is typical of Pat Riley, who was recently revealed to have been in the running for LaMarcus Aldridge. "The Godfather" will always go for the big names and more often than not, he got them-and he has the rings to show for it.
Now, the Heat will face a crossroad. After the LeBron James departure, the Heat did not self-destruct but it is clear that they don't have an alpha dog. In 2010, James, Wade and Bosh were a union of three alpha dogs. After their four years together, it unraveled that Wade is no longer capable of taking a team on his shoulders and Bosh may be the best complementary piece for a franchise player-except he does not have an "alpha dog" to complement anymore.
While the Heat still has enviable talent, they need a new franchise player and Kevin Durant would be the best. But to pursue him, they need to clear a logjam, and it's not just the salary cap.
Hassan Whiteside, the Heat's prize discovery at the center position, has complained about how his team does not design plays for him, as stated in Hot Hot Hoops.
"There's a real issue here because there are nights when Whiteside is or can be the best player on the court for Miami and they aren't utilizing him enough." Whiteside has to play off the ball or score off his own rebounds.
The only plays that are designed for Whiteside is the lob pass for an alley oop play, and that has already been read by opposing teams. It's either the Heat don't have enough faith in him or because of the presence of another inside scorer.
Chris Bosh was identified by SI.com as one of the stars who could be traded. If the Heat are to pursue Durant, Bosh is still a coveted player who could bring worthy assets to the team.
Durant could bring what Bosh brought to the table but he's a younger and more talented upgrade. In contrast, Whiteside would not bring much in a trade as teams know he's a free agent.
If the Heat have a real chance on Durant and they need a trade to clear the cap, Bosh is the one to go.