As the Damian Lillard trade saga continues to cast a shadow over the NBA offseason, Tyler Herro finds himself in a state of uncertainty. While the Miami Heat explores potential trades for Lillard, they are also contemplating how to best utilize Herro within their evolving lineup.

Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald reports that the Heat are considering the possibility of entrusting either Tyler Herro or Josh Richardson with the crucial role of primary ball-handler for their starting unit. This decision comes in the wake of Gabe Vincent’s departure to the Los Angeles Lakers in free agency, leaving 37-year-old Kyle Lowry as the sole traditional point guard on Miami’s roster.

Tyler Herro, who was honored as the Sixth Man of the Year in the 2021-22 season, is no stranger to handling the basketball. Over the past two seasons, he has emerged as the Heat’s second-leading scorer, averaging an impressive 20.4 points per game.

Herro has demonstrated his versatility by excelling both as a starter and a key reserve during his tenure with the Heat. In the previous season, while operating as a full-time shooting guard in the starting lineup, he logged a career-high 34.9 minutes per game and dished out a career-best 280 assists.

However, Miami’s preference remains securing Damian Lillard as their starting point guard for the upcoming 2023-24 season. This desire is well-known to the Portland Trail Blazers, as reported by ESPN’s Brian Windhorst. The Blazers are holding out for a trade package from the Heat that is on par with the one the Brooklyn Nets received in exchange for Kevin Durant.

Trade negotiations between Miami and Portland have stretched beyond the expected timeline since Lillard first requested a trade in July. Lillard’s strong desire to join the Heat puts the franchise in a unique position, possibly forcing them to compete against themselves with each offer they propose. On the other side, the Blazers recognize the importance of securing an exceptional return for a player of Lillard’s caliber and are determined not to rush the process in their pursuit of a mutually beneficial trade agreement.