NBA Trade Deadline 2019: One trade every team should make

ORLANDO, FL - NOVEMBER 17: Center Nikola Vucevic #9 of the Orlando Magic drives to the basket against Center JaVale McGee #7 of the Los Angeles Lakers during the game at the Amway Center on November 17, 2018 in Orlando, Florida. The Magic defeated the Lakers 130 to 117. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Don Juan Moore/Getty Images) /

22 of 31

MIAMI, FL – MARCH 10: Kelly Olynyk /

The Thunder need some help if they’re going to compete against the Warriors for the chance to represent the Western Conference in the Finals this season. That helps arrive courtesy of the Miami Heat, who send them Kelly Olynyk and Rodney McGruder. The Heat are more than happy take a couple expiring contracts for some salary relief as well as a distant future first round pick.

The Thunder have been winning games this season due to their defense, but if they can add a wing talent like McGruder to their rotation as well as a bench scoring option like Olynyk, it could make them that much more difficult to defeat in the playoffs. They don’t want to be going home after the first round again this year, and making a move like this would help them achieve that goal.

Home/NBA