Miami Heat: Andre Iguodala headed to South Beach

The Miami Heat have made a move prior to the trade deadline. According to multiple media reports, they have acquired Andre Iguodala in a trade with the Memphis Grizzlies.

Justise Winslow is headed to Memphis as part of the deal.

Per ESPN Miami is signing Iguodala to a two-year, $30 million extension. Iguodala has a team-option for 2021-2022. He is allowing Miami to have salary cap flexibility. If Miami does not manage to recruit an elite player, the team would give Iguodala his $15 million for ’21-22.

The Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers were also interested in his services according to a report from of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.  The veteran has an interesting story. He was traded to Memphis in the offseason from Golden State. He did not play for Memphis, staying away from the team until an agreement could be made for a landing spot.

What can he bring to Miami Heat?

This gives the Heat a veteran on the roster who has playoff experience. Aside from what he can bring on the basketball court, Iguodala has been a part of championship teams. He knows what it takes to win. He, along with Jimmy Butler, will undoubtedly serve the role of veterans on a young Heat team.

In his prime, he was a tremendous scorer. Lately, he has been serving the role of bench player. He appeared in 68 games for Golden State in the 2018-19 season. Starting 13 of them, he averaged 5.7 points per contest.

Iguodala is not going to put up MVP-type numbers. He will however offer a steady veteran presence that can score points when needed. Often times, you will see teams acquire a veteran at the trade deadline as they make a playoff or championship push. This is exactly that type of move.

This transaction also rids the Miami Heat of Winslow. The oft-injured Winslow never could get on the court consistently this season. Now, both parties can move forward. Winslow took to social media, seeming very excited to end up in Memphis.

@1Tyus @GraysonJAllen MY BRUDDAS✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾

— Justise Winslow (@IAmJustise) February 6, 2020

It will be interesting to see exactly what type of role Iguodala fills for Miami. This was a low-risk high-reward move as the team looks continue their assent in the Eastern Conference.