ASK IRA: Can Heat do an offseason deal without dealing Tyler Herro?

Q: We know the general asking price of Kevin Durant and Donovan Mitchell. Seems like the Heat will part with Tyler Herro and not Bam Adebayo. So assuming we strike out on those, what’s the potential asking price of Myles Turner, John Collins, or even Kyrie Irving? Will Herro still be required, or is a first and Duncan Robinson enough? – John, Ocala.

A: First, I do not believe the Heat would have any intention of aggressively moving for Kyrie Irving, not even on the level of Tyler Herro. As for others, yes, I believe Tyler likely would have to be put in play, considering he is the Heat’s most attractive asset of those most likely to be moved. With Tyler eligible for a max-scale extension up to the start of the season, it basically comes down to dual assessments by the Heat: Is Tyler more valuable as a trade asset than a roster asset? And is he more valuable under long-term contract here or elsewhere? And that latter element also is significant when it comes to a potential trade acquisition, since Myles Turner, Jae Crowder and Harrison Barnes all are heading into the final year of their contracts. So eventually, the Heat also would have to make such a long-term salary assessment on such an acquisition.

Q: I don’t know if keeping Tyler Herro out of the starting lineup is some kind of psycho-gamesmanship on the part of Erik Spoelstra, but when you watch games and read box scores, it can’t be production-on-the-court oriented. If I was Tyler I would be coming back this’ll with a chip on my shoulder and some ultimatums. – Bill, North Fort Myers.

A: Chip, yes. Ultimatums? 22-year-olds do not hold such privileges with the Heat. Look, after all the talk from Tyler and Heat President Pat Riley, it will come down to two factors: Tyler earning the job in camp. Erik Spoelstra deciding what is best for the overall rotation. This again could come down to sacrifice, in a way potentially palatable to both. And, as stated above, that’s if Tyler remains a part of the mix here or elsewhere.

Q: Hi Ira, I feel like the Heat aren’t only lacking in scoring but rather also in length and paint deterrence (outside of Bam Adebayo). Bam and Jimmy Butler are plus defenders, but the backcourt of Kyle Lowry and Tyler Herro will have defensive issues. – Eddie, South Bend, Ind.

A: But you are leaving out one component with your defensive concerns, one who could make a significant difference on both ends – Victor Oladipo. Vic already showed his ability to play as a defensive pest in the playoffs, and he certainly has scoring ability. That is why it would make more sense to prioritize the power rotation.