If the Heat don't win the Damian Lillard sweepstakes, they shouldn't abandon the idea of a whale hunt. They not only have the trade chips needed to bring back a star, but they also have the urgency to win as big as possible during whatever is left of Jimmy Butler's prime.

While a scoring guard is typically the big piece fake-traded to South Beach, the Heat could get as much mileage out of an impact wing like George. He can still pile up points in bunches (23-plus per night in each of the past three seasons), and he fits both on and off the ball. He'd also strengthen the defensive end, which remains Miami's calling card.

He could conceivably be available—or at least become available—given the uncertainty that exists in the Los Angeles Clippers' near future. Both he and Kawhi Leonard have player options for 2024-25, meaning each could hit unrestricted free agency next summer. Given their many availability issues, the Clippers could have serious (and understandable) reservations about committing max money to a pair of oft-injured 30-somethings.