NBA Trade Rumors: Are the Heat interested in Denver’s Mozgov?

There’s an odd man out in Denver and unfortunately for Timofey Mozgov, he finds himself on the outside looking in when it comes to playing time. Coming as part of the Carmelo Anthony trade, Mozgov has seen the majority of the minutes given to Javale McGee, Kosta Koufos and Kenneth Faried. Mozgov, who is in the final year of his contract, said that it makes sense for the Nuggets to trade him.

“I think it’s logical, you can see that, trading me,” Mozgov said to Fox Sports Florida. “I’m in my contract year. So if they can get something for me…I don’t think it would be a surprise for me to get traded.”

Oct 1, 2012; Denver, CO, USA; Denver Nuggets center Timofey Mozgov (25) is interviewed by reporters during media day at the Pepsi Center. Mandatory Credit: Troy Babbitt-USA TODAY Sports

One team who is is interested in boosting their front court depth is the Miami Heat. The Heat have been linked to Greg Oden and former Nuggets fan favorite Chris Andersen. The latest rumors have the Heat showing interest in Mozgov.

The deal would make perfect sense for the Heat. With Mozgov in his final year of his contract, one that’s worth just $2.79 million, he would be a perfect fit for the defending NBA champs.

With Anderson Varejao and Kevin Love both on the shelf with injuries, the trade market for big men has gotten slimmer and slimmer. In just his third year, the young Mozgov could develop quite nicely with Dwyane Wade and LeBron James by his side.

What would it take to get Mozgov? Quite frankly, not too much. The Nuggets don’t seem to have any intention of re-signing him in the offseason, so at this point, a draft pick would more than likely suffice.

“I heard Miami is trying to find a big guy,” Mozgov said to Fox Sports Florida.

Mozgov is averaging 2.7 points and 3.0 rebounds per game this season.