How the Dallas Mavericks Can Capitalize Off LeBron James’ Free Agency

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5. Miami Heat

Finally, there is the Miami Heat. A reunion with Pat Riley shouldn’t be discounted as a pipe dream considering James’ close relationship with the organization. While the Heat don’t have a nucleus in place to help LeBron compete for a championship immediately, Pat Riley knows how to acquire enough assets to make it work. That is why the Mavs could pounce on Hassan Whiteside.

The Heat would have to part with their starting center to fit in James. The Mavs came close to signing Whiteside as a free agent two summers ago, but ultimately narrowly chose the Heat over the Mavericks. The Mavs clearly have a certain level of respect for Whiteside’s ability as a player and while it would be a high amount of money to suddenly take on, it would be a tremendous upgrade at the center position for a Mavs team that has been on the hunt for a starting caliber center since Tyson Chandler left.

Josh Richardson and Tyler Johnson are also names to watch. The Heat were forced into Johnson’s contract when they matched the Nets’ offer sheet for the gritty guard. Riley would have to shed his deal promptly, and may still have to lose Josh Richardson. Richardson is limited offensively, but is one of the game’s toughest defenders and never cheats the game even for a minute with relentless hustle.

Next: Mock Draft 3.0- Who's in the Top Ten This Week?

There are going to be options available for the Mavs when LeBron James finds his new home for the upcoming season. Some options are better than others but, either way, Dallas should be monitoring the situation closely and ready to pounce the second pen hits paper.

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