In recent years, the Miami Heat have thrived when it comes to drafting in the mid-range of the first round. Tyler Herro, Bam Adebayo and Jamie Jaquez Jr. are all great examples of their strategy working.
This year, it looks like the Heat might have pulled a rabbit out of their draft night magic hat once again. They selected Kel'el Ware 15th overall.
Ware was always considered one of the best talents in his draft class but there were some question marks over his game as well. Many felt that he would not fit into 'Heat Culture', based on hard work and toughness.
Ware certainly looked the part in the Summer League though. He averaged 18.3 points, 8.4 rebounds, 1.1 steals and 1.7 blocks per game while shooting 58.4% from the field over his eight appearances.
It looks like Ware's performances have left a veteran NBA assistant coach, who has been on multiple teams and also worked as a scout, very impressed.
According to Barry Jackson in the Miami Herald , the coach/scout said: "They got a steal with [Kel’El] Ware.
"Everyone questioned his motor at Oregon; nobody questioned the talent. And people are going to be disappointed they didn’t take him [before Miami selected him 15th].
"His shot blocking was off the charts in Summer League. He got up and down the floor. He’s always been considered a talented offensive player, but he did it more consistently than people expected. He really shined. This is going to give Bam [Adebayo] the ability to not be at the five [center] full time."
That will be music to the ears of Heat fans. It looks like the franchise have another top prospect on their hands.
Ware will immediately add some much-needed size to this team. And if his output translates to the league then he should be a key part of the rotation from this season itself.
Ware's presence could help Bam Adebayo, who many are seeing as the Heat's new franchise player with Jimmy Butler's future in Miami up in the air, as well.
Related: Could Miami Heat Trade Tyler Herro for $215 Million Star?
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