Acquiring Mike Bibby & Ron Artest Would Help Miami, But Heat Must Develop Young Talent

The Associated Press reports on Miami defeating Minnesota:

With time running out in a close game, Dwyane Wade was struggling and Shaquille O’Neal had fouled out.

So the Miami Heat turned to another duo - Udonis Haslem and Alonzo Mourning .

Haslem hit consecutive jumpers to give the Heat some breathing room, and Mourning came up with three crucial rebounds and a clutch tip-in in the final minute as the Heat edged the Minnesota Timberwolves 91-87 Monday night.

My Quick Take: Pat Riley and the Miami Heat will take Monday’s win against the lowly Minnesota Timberwolves.

After all, times are tough in South Beach. Their 2005-06 NBA Title is a distant memory and fans watch a team destined for June’s lottery. Worst of all, the current group has accepted their fate as a cellar-dweller.

However, the Heat has one option left-shaking up their nucleus with a blockbuster trade. And the rumor mill is churning.

There’s still talk, though, that Miami is trying to use the expiring contracts of Jason Williams and Ricky Davis to put together a deal for Mike Bibby and Ron Artest. (Chicago Tribune)

This proposed trade would help Miami accomplish two things. First, the Heat would suddenly have a top perimeter trio in Bibby, Wade, and Artest. Of course, Shaquille O’Neal and Udonis Haslem are serviceable down-low.

Second, a mega-deal would go a long way to keep Wade in Miami. After all, ‘Flash’ can exercise an opt-out clause and bounce as a free agent following the 2009-2010 season.

No upgrade in talent. No D-Wade.

But this trade alone wouldn’t put Riley’s squad over-the-top. Right now, the Heat needs an injection of youth, athleticism, and enthusiasm. And two veterans, with personal and professional baggage, won’t do that.

In an ideal world, Miami would add established veterans and commit to developing in-house youngsters like Daequan Cook and Dorrell Wright.

But desperation is setting-in. So developing talent won’t happen-even if it’s the right thing to do.

Should Miami bring in veterans, go young, or do both? Let us know in the comment box below or get at us in HoopsVibe’s fan forum.

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