This Heat-Thunder trade could create a new superteam in the West

As we enter the 2024-25 season, the Oklahoma City Thunder find themselves on the brink of greatness after a superb season and offseason. After winning 57 games and making it to the Western Conference semifinals, the Thunder are amongst the favorites to represent the Western Conference in this year's NBA Finals

They have the talent to compete with the league's best, especially after adding Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein this summer. But many believe they are missing that one crucial piece that could further push them over the top.

Meanwhile, the Miami Heat find themselves at an interesting crossroads. They are undoubtedly one of the better teams in the Eastern Conference but run the risk of losing Jimmy Butler, who is looking for a big-money extension after this season.

After a few seasons in South Beach, the relationship between the general manager Pat Riley and Jimmy Butler seems shaky, after the legendary GM questioned Butler's commitment during the regular season and his antics off the court.

Butler has publicly stated his desire to stay in Miami. However, given his age and the rapidly changing landscape of the Eastern Conference, the Heat's management maybe hesitant to give the six-time all-star that kind of money.

If the Heat opt not to pull the trigger on a the extension on Butler, it may open the door for a possible trade and the Thunder should be buyers if Butler is made available.

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Thunder have an abundance of young players with high upside and draft picks from the Paul George and SGA trades however, there are way too many assets, which puts the Thunder in a position to pull off a trade.

This deal would allow the Heat to go younger and build a roster around star big man Bam Adebayo while remaing competetive with the rest of the Eastern conference.

Acquiring Jalen Williams, who showed immense potential last season and has massive upside as a scorer, and could be the guy for the Heat in terms of a potential superstar. Additionally, Lugentz Dort brings elite defensive prowess and 3-and-D contributions which could help in the starting lineup or off the bench.

The Thunder would also need to include Isaiah Joe, a special outside shooter, Ousmane Dieng and a pair of future first-round picks. Because Joe just signed a new contract with the Thunder, he wouldn't be able to be traded until Dec. 15.

Meanwhile, the centerpiece of this trade, Jimmy Butler, gets sent to the Thunder, hoping to elevate them into championship status. Butler brings plenty of NBA Finals experience, having made it twice over the past five years, and could be the guy who takes Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren to new heights.