Pat Riley Talks Giannis Trade, Heat's 'Win Now' Mindset Amid LeBron James Rumors in NBA Free Agency

Many believe the Miami Heat will need an adjustment period after acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks, but Pat Riley believes the trade puts his squad in a position to win as soon as this season.

"Our mentality is we want to win now, just like everybody else who thinks they're good wants to win now," Riley said on The Dan Le Batard Show. "And that's what we want to do. So, whoever we bring in will help us win now."

Riley also indicated that the team is eyeing a playmaker amid rumors that LeBron James is interested in joining the Heat.

"Everybody talks about shooting," Riley said. "That's not the main priority right now. It's another real playmaker."

Even though Miami's roster could still use some work, the addition of Antetokounmpo immediately makes them a team to watch in the East. A core of him and Bam Adebayo gives the Heat an elite frontcourt that every team in the league will have trouble stopping.

But Miami could still get better this offseason by making a few moves. Of course, perimeter scoring is among the priorities after losing Tyler Herro and Norman Powell this offseason, but the Heat perhaps should keep its focus on James for now.

The Heat are reported to be among the favorites to land the four-time MVP, along with the Cleveland Cavaliers, Golden State Warriors and Philadelphia 76ers.

Miami's roster surely entices James, as he would be able to play second fiddle to Antetokounmpo and would be on a team capable of winning a championship. It would also give James the chance to reunite with head coach Erik Spoelstra, whom he won a pair of championships with in the past.

A few years ago, a core of James, Antetokounmpo and Adebayo likely wouldn't work together since all three were known for scoring around the basket, but the 41-year-old James' game looks much different now.

As he's aged, James has taken on more of a passing role, averaging nearly eight assists per game over the last seven years. The all-time great is still capable of getting to the rim, but he could easily serve as the Heat's primary playmaker should he choose Miami.

James reportedly is getting closer to making a decision, so Riley and Miami will continue their pursuit of them until he chooses his next destination.

If James chooses to play elsewhere, the Heat will have to pivot to another potential playmaker if they want to compete now.