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What Happen Last Season:
The Miami Heat of 2016-17 had the most Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde season in NBA history. Through the first 41 games of the season, the team was a dreadful 11-30. They were well on their way a high lottery pick, when suddenly, a 13-game winning-streak occurred and put the Heat right back into the playoff hunt. The team finished their next 41 games with a 30-11 record, to finish the season with at 41-41. Despite the second half surge, they fell a tiebreaker (with the Chicago Bulls) short of making the playoffs.
The Heat had breakout seasons from considered draft-bust, Dion Waiters and journeyman James Johnson. Their future building block, Hassan Whiteside, posted 17.1 points and led the league in rebounding with 14.1 per game. With young, devolving players such as Josh Richardson, Justise Winslow and Tyler Johnson on the roster for years to come, the future looks bright in Miami.
Upcoming Free Agents:
Unrestricted:
Luke Babbitt, Udonis Haslem, James Johnson, Willie Reed, Dion Waiters
Restricted:
None
Cap Space:
Potential Cap Space: $37,907,264
Top Priorities:
Dion Waiters
A large reason for the Heat’s second half resurgence was the brilliant play of Dion Waiters. He averaged 15.8 points and 4.3 assist per game and hit a number of game winning shots including one against the Golden State Warriors. The guard from Syracuse provides the Heat with a solid option on offense. His personality is well loved in Miami and he is only 25 years old. Reports say Waiters is willing to offer the Heat a “discount” for his services. The Heat must do whatever they can to bring back Waiters County. The fans love him and he loves being in Miami. Plus, Waiters and Goran Dragic have one of the best names in the association, 7-Eleven.
James Johnson
It would be difficult for the Heat to re-sign both Waiters and Johnson. If they are unable to bring back Waiters, Johnson would be welcomed back in a hurry. After playing for multiple teams during his eight-year career, Johnson found a home with the Heat and produced a career season. He posted a career high in points and rebounds with 12.3 points and 4.9 rebounds per game. Johnson delivered high energy off the bench. Johnson also offers the Heat versatility due to the fact he could play both the small forward and power forward position. Johnson is a nice fit in Miami; however, the Heat should not overpay to keep him because of one solid year.
Potential Targets:
Gordon Hayward - After coming off a career season in which he dropped a career high in buckets (21.9 points per game to be exact), Gordon Hayward is the most sought-after free agent hitting the market. The high scoring forward would be a perfect complementary piece to the Heat’s Goran Dragic and Hassan Whiteside. Hayward can create his own shot, break down defenses and is a solid defender. Many reporters mention Hayward’s interest to the Heat due to their “lack of state taxes.” One thing being overlooked by everyone is the weather Miami can offer. After enjoying seven years in the icy state of Utah, Hayward should come enjoy the warm state of Miami.
Danilo Gallinari - If the Heat do swing and miss for Hayward, they could settle for a consolation prize in Danilo Gallinari. The Heat lack a lengthy small forward with the ability to score. The 6’10 Gallinari perfectly fits the description. He is coming off a solid season averaging 18.2 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. Justise Winslow does prove the team with a solid option at SF, but has yet to develop a consistent offensive game. The only concern with him is his fragileness. After missing the entire 2013-14 season due to reconstructive ACL surgery, Gallinari has missed 68 total games in three season with a number of injuries.