The Miami Heat have made significant moves this offseason to bounce back from a disappointing 2023-24 season where they finished with a 46-36 record and an early playoff exit. The Heat re-signed Kevin Love to a two-year, $8 million contract and Bam Adebayo to a three-year, $165 million extension. They waived Orlando Robinson and signed guards Isaiah Stevens and Bryson Warren to Exhibit 10 contracts to bolster their depth.
With Jimmy Butler seeking a maximum-salary extension and the continued development of players like Bam Adebayo , Nikola Jovic, and Jaime Jaquez Jr., the Heat are balancing veteran leadership with emerging talent. As they gear up for the 2024-25 season, Miami's roster changes reflect a commitment to remaining competitive in the Eastern Conference while planning for the future.
Point Guards
Terry Rozier, Josh Richardson
Terry Rozier had a productive 2023-24 season, split between the Charlotte Hornets and the Miami Heat. In total, Rozier played 61 games, averaging 19.8 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 5.6 assists per game. He maintained a field goal percentage of 44.3% and shot 36.3% from beyond the arc. Rozier’s ability to score and facilitate will be crucial for the Heat's backcourt, providing them with a reliable option to initiate the offense and create scoring opportunities.
Josh Richardson, returning to the Heat, brings his defensive tenacity and versatility. Last season, he averaged 9.9 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game. Richardson’s ability to guard multiple positions and contribute offensively will be essential for the Heat, particularly in supporting roles and off-ball scenarios.
Despite these additions, the Heat still lack a pure playmaker in their roster. With Tyus Jones available in free agency, Miami could consider pursuing him to fill this crucial role and provide more balance to their backcourt. Jones' playmaking skills and ability to run the offense could complement the scoring prowess of Rozier and Richardson, potentially addressing one of the team's key weaknesses.
Shooting Guards
Tyler Herro, Duncan Robinson, Alec Burks
Tyler Herro had a strong 2023-24 season, playing in 42 games and averaging 20.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.5 assists per game. He shot 45.1% from the field and an impressive 39.6% from three-point range. Herro remains a critical component of the Heat’s offensive strategy with his scoring and playmaking abilities.
Duncan Robinson played 68 games, averaging 12.9 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. He maintained a shooting efficiency of 45.0% from the field and 39.5% from beyond the arc, continuing to be a reliable three-point shooter for the Heat.
Alec Burks, joining the Heat, averaged 10.4 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game last season. Known for his scoring off the bench and versatility, Burks shot 37.6% from three-point range.
Small Forwards
Jimmy Butler, Haywood Highsmith, Pelle Larsson
Jimmy Butler had another strong season in 2023-24, playing in 60 games and averaging 20.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. He shot 49.9% from the field and an impressive 41.4% from three-point range while maintaining an 85.8% free throw percentage. Butler remains the focal point of the Heat’s offense and a critical leader on the court, providing both scoring and playmaking abilities.
Haywood Highsmith stepped up as a valuable role player for the Heat and earned a brand new contract this offseason. Known for his defensive efforts, he contributed effectively in his minutes on the court, averaging 4.4 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 0.9 assists per game. His versatility and energy make him an important piece in the rotation, especially in defensive matchups.
Pelle Larsson, an intriguing prospect from Arizona, joins the Heat as a promising young player expected to bring additional depth to the small forward position. His collegiate performance showcased his potential, particularly in his shooting and defensive capabilities. Larsson’s development will be closely watched as he transitions to the NBA.
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Power Forwards
Jaime Jaquez Jr., Nikola Jovic, Kel'el Ware
Jaime Jaquez Jr. had an encouraging rookie season with the Miami Heat, averaging 11.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 2.6 assists per game over 75 games. His versatility and ability to contribute both offensively and defensively make him a valuable piece for the Heat moving forward.
Nikola Jovic showed promise in his second season, averaging 7.7 points and 4.2 rebounds per game. His shooting percentages were 45.2% from the field and 39.9% from three-point range, indicating his ability to stretch the floor and provide valuable scoring off the bench.
Kel’el Ware, the Heat’s first-round pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, had a standout season at Indiana, averaging 15.9 points, 9.9 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 1.9 blocks per game. Ware’s impressive defensive capabilities and rebounding skills will be essential as he transitions to the NBA, adding a dynamic presence to Miami’s frontcourt.
Centers
Bam Adebayo, Kevin Love, Thomas Bryant
Bam Adebayo had a standout 2023-24 season, playing in 71 games and averaging 19.4 points, 10.4 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game. His defensive prowess was evident with 1.1 steals and 0.9 blocks per game. Adebayo's ability to impact the game on both ends of the floor makes him the cornerstone of Miami's frontcourt.
Kevin Love provided valuable veteran presence, contributing 8.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game over 55 games. His shooting efficiency, including a 34.4% mark from beyond the arc, added spacing to the Heat's offense.
Thomas Bryant, acquired in the offseason, adds depth to the center position. Last season, he averaged 5.7 points and 3.7 rebounds per game. Bryant's size and scoring ability in the paint will be crucial for Miami's rotation, providing reliable minutes off the bench.
Can The Heat Be Better Than Last Season?
The Miami Heat had a challenging 2023-24 season, finishing with a 46-36 record and securing the 8th seed in the Eastern Conference. They were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Boston Celtics, losing the series 1-4. The offseason saw minimal changes to their roster. Key players like Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, and Tyler Herro remain, but the team didn’t make any significant additions. The focus was on internal development and minor tweaks rather than major roster overhauls.
There is a blend of optimism and skepticism regarding the Heat's prospects for the upcoming season. The continuity provided by retaining the core players could foster better chemistry and performance. However, questions arise about whether this strategy will be enough to elevate them above the highly competitive Eastern Conference contenders. Players like Duncan Robinson and Kyle Lowry need to step up, maintaining health and consistency to support the team’s goals.
Ultimately, the Heat's success will hinge on several factors. Internal growth and the development of young talents like Nikola Jović and Jaime Jaquez Jr. are crucial. Erik Spoelstra's coaching will be vital in navigating the regular season's challenges. While the lack of major changes might seem concerning, this stability could lead to a more cohesive team. Whether this approach can push the Heat to surpass last season’s performance remains to be seen, but significant internal improvements will be necessary for a deeper playoff run.
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