Free Agent Austin Rivers Said He Would Do Anything To Play For The Miami Heat

The Heat’s high competitiveness and drive for success is makes them the number one option in free agency

The Miami Heat are one of the most respected franchises in sports history. The admiration level is so high many current players express their desire to play for them.

In a recent episode of Bill Simmons’ podcast The Bill Simmons Podcast, free agent guard Austin Rivers said he would do anything to play for the Heat due to their extreme competitiveness.

“I would do anything to play for the Miami Heat, seriously,” Rivers said. “Like, that's like number one choice for me would be to play for Spo and play with guys like Jimmy. Like f–king dogs, man. Like dogs, bro. Go out there. Play through illness, play through injury, play through soreness. Defend.”

The details Rivers gave is why the Heat are respected. Even though they only have three championships, they’ve been title contenders most of the time with 24 playoff appearances. With Pat Riley at the helm, they are also known for drafting talented players such as Dwyane Wade and Bam Adebayo.

Right now, the Heat are engaged in trade talks with Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard. Although they have a high chance of acquiring the seven-time All-Star, other teams have entered the conversation.

If the Heat fail to get Lillard, Rivers could be a potential target. Of course, the talent level isn’t close to being the same but he could add depth to a bench that was No. 25 last season in scoring. Considering guards Tyler Herro and Kyle Lowry experienced inconsistency, Rivers could also be a third option for the point guard position.

Sure, the Heat would rather get Lillard but they may have to start looking at other targets.

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Cory Nelson is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He attended Northern Virginia Community College. He can be reached at corymckenzienelson@hotmail.com or follow him on Twitter @CKenzyNelson. You can also check out his personal blog HERE.