For the last two seasons, the Miami Heat have found themselves in the play-in tournament. When the playoffs take off, they end up without home-court advantage against a top seed, leaving the organization with a small window for error to win games. This explains why they were recently sent home by the Boston Celtics, who went on to win the NBA Finals.
Although injuries left a significant impact on how their season ended, the Miami Heat must finish with a top seed in the regular season. This will make success in the postseason inevitable, especially with multiple stars and one of the NBA’s greatest head coaches directing traffic.
Key Additions:
SG Alec Burks
There are few veterans around the league who can contribute on the same level as Burks. He is an astonishing athlete who can score on his terms at all three levels. This will be beneficial for Miami’s bench, especially on a bargained contract of just over three million annually.
After being drafted just out of the lottery, Ware let the world know in preseason that Miami found another star center. Each minute he clocked on the court, he put on a show for the fans with electric dunks and jaw-dropping blocks. Ware will be the perfect backup behind Bam Adebayo in his rookie season.
Key Losses:
SF Caleb Martin
Following two developmental seasons with the Hornets, Martin utilized his time with the Heat as a bridge toward success in the NBA. He worked hard until his name was called and took advantage of each opportunity he was given, which allowed Martin to receive a four-year deal with the Philadelphia 76ers, another contender in the Eastern Conference.
Following a buyout with the Wizards, Miami fans knew how good Wright would be under head coach Erik Spoelstra. He thrives on and off the ball and steps up when needed. It is no surprise Wright shot a ridiculous 60% from three in four playoff contests for the Heat.
Starting Lineup: PG Terry Rozier, SG Tyler Herro, SF Jimmy Butler, PF Nikola Jovic, C Bam Adebayo
Bench: Jaime Jaquez Jr., Burks, Josh Richardson, Ware, Duncan Robinson, Kevin Love
Reserves: Thomas Bryant, Haywood Highsmith, Pelle Larsson, Josh Christopher (TW)
With a durable roster and no setbacks, the Heat will make their opening night battle against the Magic a fun watch. If they come out on top, they could start the season on a much-needed win streak. This will create momentum against other teams like the Knicks, Kings, and Suns.
Season Outlook:
If Butler and his crew can suit up for the majority of the season, Miami could easily finish as a top-four seed. They have an elite front office, head coach, and training staff eager to reappear in the NBA Finals. This is all the city needs to make its return and hopefully come away with its first banner since 2013.
Projected Finish:
Record: 50-32
Projected Finish: 4th in the Eastern Conference
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