KZ Okpala Is Up Next For Miami

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It was no coincidence that Miami’s second round draft pick KZ Okpala went through a similar rookie season as second year player Duncan Robinson.

Duncan went through his rookie year with a two-way contract, spending most of his time getting ready for the Sioux Falls Skyforce team. He put up an intriguing stat line of 21 points a game, along with close to 5 threes per game as well.

Chet Kammerer even told the Sun Sentinel, “We purposely didn’t bring him in,” which is exactly what I’ve been saying Miami has been doing with KZ Okpala all along.

Although KZ wasn’t putting up 21 a game in the G-League, he was filling up the stat sheet quite nicely. He averaged 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 2 assists, but what jumped out most was his 1.4 steals and 1.1 blocks a game.

Something I’ve noticed with the G-League is that it always seems to spotlight a player’s strength, like Duncan hitting 5 threes a game. And KZ’s spotlight has clearly been on the defensive side of the ball.

Obviously his length and quickness to guard guys out on the perimeter is just a God-given talent, but his tenacity and energy on defense just screams Heat culture.

And it’s hard to truly talk about a player’s defensive abilities until he’s guarding players in the actual league, but he seemed to showcase that talent when he got inserted into the game against Sacramento early in the season.

 

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The first thing that stood out from his defensive abilities that night was how quick he can move his feet. They played a lot of zone in that game with him at the top of it, and he just never stopped moving. And you may say that the word length is overstated at times with players, but KZ definitely used it to his advantage. Kings players had major trouble trying to get good shots off over his contests.

The only downfall that was shown in that game was foul trouble. He makes it such a priority to put as much effort as possible on that side of the ball, that he begins to reach which forces the whistle to get blown. Some of it may have had something to do with the fact that he had a small frame, but it’s clear he’s continued to add muscle and change his body.

With Derrick Jones Jr possibly leaving in free agency, it’s the perfect opportunity for KZ to step up into a new role in Miami’s rotation. Miami always seems to put the ultimate amount of trust in their players, which is why they started Duncan Robinson and Erik Spoelstra made comments prior to the season that he’s the best shooter in the NBA.

I believe they show KZ that same exact trust by giving him an increased amount of minutes on the first game of the season.

Once again, it’s not a coincidence that they gave KZ a year to work himself in like Duncan did, it’s just their process.

There’s also a reason that Miami seems reluctant to include KZ Okpala in trade packages for solid players. It’s because Pat Riley and the Heat front office see something in him, and that speaks major volume.

Would Miami Consider Dennis Schroder?

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The point guard position may not be much of a worry for Miami as of right now, since they have Tyler Herro possibly switching over, a 20th pick consideration, and of course Goran Dragic. The only issue is that although it seems very likely Miami will resign Goran, there’s still a small chance it doesn’t work out.

If Miami was to go into next season without Goran Dragic, a veteran point guard would be pretty ideal.

Dennis Schroder would definitely be an option for Miami through trade, since he’s going into the last year of his deal next season.

He’s coming off of a very impressive season averaging 19 points a game off the bench. The shooting even improved this year since he hit about two threes a game, shooting 39% which was a career best.

 

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I think it’s pretty obvious what Schroder gives you offensively, but what stands out now is the other side of the ball.

Schroder probably had one of his best defensive seasons of his career this past season. He’s very feisty and energetic on the defensive side of the ball, which led to him being an absolute havoc against opposing guards.

He actually was fourth in Defensive Win Shares among all of the other guards in the NBA during the regular season.

And when discussing the fit on this current Heat team, I believe it’s a pretty good one.

For one, Schroder thrived most this season when playing in lineups with two other ball-handlers, like Chris Paul and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. And if he gets inserted into lineups with Tyler Herro, Jimmy Butler, and Bam Adebayo, he should be able to thrive very similarly.

I also believe he wants a starting position in this league, and that won’t happen in OKC unless Chris Paul gets traded. And he’d definitely start on this Heat team since they’re in need of a defensive guard.

Once again, I don’t believe that Miami and Goran Dragic will part ways since Pat Riley made it clear in his press conference that they’re looking to take care of him. But if they were to move on, I believe Dennis could be a guy that they consider.

Could De’Aaron Fox Take His Talents To South Beach?

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Another player has emerged into some talks about possibly joining the Miami Heat in the near future, and his name is De’Aaron Fox.

The plan has continually been to go after Giannis Antetokounmpo in 2021 free agency, but it’s never a bad idea to have a back-up plan.

It honestly seems to be the best possible fit you can think of.

Kentucky Wildcat, defensive oriented, emerging player, relationship with Bam Adebayo.

All of these things will play a part in this possibly happening, but how would this fit look exactly?

Around that time, Miami will officially be searching for that Goran Dragic replacement. Some hope that Tyler Herro can become the starting point guard of the Miami Heat eventually, which could still possibly happen, but doesn’t it seem ideal to have De’Aaron as the starting point guard instead?

The answer is yes. As mentioned previously he’s a guy that you can trust to guard opposing point guards, which is what Miami is looking for.

And that’s not the only thing that he brings, since he’s a player that you can trust to run your offense and get guys in the right spots. He has continued to become a better passer year after year, averaging seven assists a game this past season.

Miami wouldn’t mind to have a guy with that pacing run the offense, since I don’t think there’s anybody faster than him with the ball in their hands. That’s the type of guy that not only Pat Riley and Erik Spoelstra would want to have, but especially Jimmy Butler.

The relationship with Bam Adebayo could potentially play a part as well, since De’Aaron has continued to be very supportive of Bam and the Miami Heat during their playoff run.

Obviously right now Miami is focused on what they have at hand for this upcoming season, but I’m 100% certain this De’Aaron Fox idea will continue to heat up as we get closer to that 2021 free agency.

It may be considered a back-up plan, but it should be considered the perfect fit.

Kentucky Wildcats All Over Miami Heat’s Draft Board Once Again

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It’s absolutely no surprise that Miami will be giving a Kentucky guy a look with the 20th pick. But this year, they have multiple Kentucky options.

For starters, there is optimism that Tyrese Maxey could potentially fall to Miami at 20, but ultimately there’s a good chance somebody grabs him earlier.

I’ve discussed why Tyrese Maxey makes sense for this Heat team, mostly due to the fact that he’s a talented two-way player.

Tyrese had a Pro Day on ESPN 2 on Thursday night, which Coach John Calipari spoke about him possibly getting overlooked like past Kentucky players. I think other teams recognize that, and if they do make yet another draft mistake, Pat Riley will be waiting to make that selection.

Greg Sylvander reported that the Miami Heat interviewed another Kentucky guard Immanuel Quickley.

His offensive package actually reminds me a lot of Tyler Herro’s game. Many have talked about his ability to play off the ball as a catch and shoot guy, like they said about Herro, but ultimately I believe he will emerge into more than that. He showed this past season that he’s pretty comfortable shooting shots off the dribble.

It would be an interesting back-court in Miami for the future. If they were to make this selection, it would definitely mean that they plan on making Tyler Herro the team’s point guard going forward, since ball-handling isn’t Quickley’s best attribute.

He also is another player who can be trusted on the defensive side of the ball. That hasn’t always been the case for Immanuel Quickley, but he really grew on that side of the ball this past season which showcases his work ethic.

He also has a close relationship with Tyler Herro, since they played together in college. He clearly fits the mold of a guy that Miami will consider in this draft.

Another name that I believe could get a look is Ashton Hagans. And what do you know, another Kentucky Wildcat.

His game definitely differs from Immanuel Quickley’s game, but they still both could fit this Heat team.

Hagans is a true point guard, who has good size and an outstanding ability to pass the ball. His shooting definitely isn’t his best attribute like Quickley, but he still has a pretty decent jumper that is evolving. He also has a great ability to get to the basket, and is most comfortable when he gets in transition.

His defense has also shown to be pretty dominant at Kentucky, but mostly off the ball when going for steals and things of that nature.

All three of these guys are 6’3 guards coming out of Kentucky the same year. Although those similarities are clear, they all have their own strengths that can all help this team right now.

If there was ever a year for Miami to draft a Kentucky Wildcat, it would be this year with all of these intriguing options.

Could Miami Take A Chance on Josh Jackson?

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Josh Jackson is another one of those young prospects who have yet to truly prove themselves, but are searching for that one opportunity.

Not many teams need a player like Josh Jackson due to the fact that he’s a liability on offense, but Miami seems like they could take a chance on him.

For starters, there’s a chance that Derrick Jones Jr could walk in free agency this off-season, and Josh seems like he could be the type of player to replicate some of the things he did.

He could be used as a spark for certain stretches when they’re having trouble defensively, since he’s fairly capable of guarding opposing wings and guards.

And I actually believe some of his offensive limitations could be opened up. He seems to be most comfortable when working downhill on the break, and has shown to be a pretty decent passer. Obviously the shooting just isn’t there, but once again I don’t believe it entirely needs to be when you have Duncan Robinson and Tyler Herro.

There is still a lot of uncertainty as well with the exact numbers in this situation on both sides. But Josh Jackson definitely should be in their money range.

All he needs is one opportunity to prove that he is a valuable role player in this league, and all Miami needs is a guy that will accept his role and can help them out defensively.

People have mentioned that it would be in his best interest to join a team with a strong culture and established veterans. And well, I don’t know a better place than Miami.

He definitely won’t be the first person on their list, since they have some guys to re-sign and other needs, but it definitely could happen.

If the numbers were to work out perfectly for both sides, I could see it happening since he can fill the role of Derrick Jones Jr and possibly Soloman Hill, if he was to walk as well.

Miami usually leans towards players who have a chip on their shoulders with something to prove, and that’s exactly what Josh Jackson has.

Nerlens Noel Could Be a Big Man Option for Miami

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Nerlens Noel is another name that has emerged as a viable option for Miami.

He can definitely bring the energy and intensity that Miami needs in a back up big. His inability to truly stretch the floor means that he will not be getting many minutes next to Bam, but once again that is just fine.

He gives them some rebounding and rim protection which is ultimately what they need.

His defensive attributes is what stands out most on his resume, since he has the ability to guard the perimeter as well. This means he can replicate some of the things that Bam Adebayo does on the defensive end.

In only 18 minutes a game, Nerlens Noel averaged 1.5 blocks and 1 steal a game. That’s a pretty good stat line considering the role that he had with OKC this past season.

Miami doesn’t need a back-up big to score 15 a night. They just need a guy that is willing to play their role, much like Meyers Leonard did this past season, but can ultimately be trusted defensively to be on the court without Bam.

Nerlens Noel also fits the mold of a guy that still needs to prove himself, much like I mentioned with Harry Giles. Miami is the perfect opportunity for a player like that, since he can have a decent role with a team that is actually contending for a title.

Nerlens does have some offensive limitations though. But with the firepower offensively on the Miami Heat’s roster, that shouldn’t be an issue.

And if they were to make this signing, it doesn’t automatically mean that Meyers Leonard is out of the picture. If Meyers is willing to accept a leadership role with this Heat team for the minimum, they will happily bring him back.

And having extra big men wouldn’t be the worst thing for Miami, especially since Nerlens Noel is known for having issues with foul trouble.

Nerlens Noel is another one of those cheap big man options that Miami could go for, so there’s definitely a chance that they go this route.

Two More Draft Names on the Miami Heat’s Radar

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It was reported today that Miami has requested another zoom interview, this time with Duke’s Tre Jones.

He is a high IQ point guard who makes great decisions with the ball in his hands. He’s a good defender as well by jumping into passing lanes, but his size doesn’t scream great NBA defender.

His shooting began to get better as the season progressed, but he’s still a very streaky shooter.

He is a very gritty player though which definitely would entice Miami, but I’m not so sure he’s exactly what Miami is looking for right now.

If they did go this route of drafting Tre Jones, it pretty much means they’re moving on from Kendrick Nunn. If Miami is to grab a guard, it’ll have to be one that can be a trusted defender upon arrival such as Tyrese Maxey.

But once again, I believe that they end up going the route of getting a big.

Another big that I haven’t mentioned that stands out is Daniel Oturu.

I believe he’s the type of player in this draft that can give Miami immediate production, which is what they are looking for.

He can protect the rim and rebound at a high level, which is their biggest need.

His offensive package stands out as well, since he has a very efficient mid-range jumper and shot the ball well from beyond the arc this past season.

He is 6’10 and 240 pounds as well, which is why he can be a force on the block. He was very productive in the post this past season, mostly since that seems to be the spot he is most comfortable.

I wouldn’t be surprised if Miami arranges a zoom interview with Daniel Oturu pretty soon, as well as Vernon Carey who I’ve discussed in the past.

Does Giving Wes Matthews a Mid-Level Exception Make Sense for Miami?

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As shown above, it was reported that Miami could consider splitting their mid-level exception between two veterans, and among those on their radar include Paul Millsap and Wes Matthews.

I’ve talked about how a Paul Millsap signing would look in the past, but how about a Wes Matthews pick-up?

For starters, he fits the exact mold of a defensive guard that Miami has been looking for. The playoffs proved even further that he can be trusted when taking the assignment of talented opposing guards.

And on the offensive side of the ball, he’s proven that he is fairly capable of being a great three point shooter.

Miami could potentially run a starting lineup of Tyler Herro, Duncan Robinson, and Wesley Matthews. Shooting once again definitely wouldn’t be an issue, and you’re improving the defensive issues.

I truly believe this makes sense for Miami to try and grab a player like Wesley Matthews, and try and fill the big man gap in the draft if they elect to keep the 20th pick.

And once again, Pat Riley and company have so many options this off-season that truly anything could happen. But getting a 3 and D guy by using the mid-level exception seems pretty ideal.

We’ll see what transpires until the beginning of free agency, but this is an option for Heat fans to keep in the back of their minds.

Is the Most Ideal Power Forward for Miami Sitting Right in Front of Them?

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Even though it seems as if Miami’s number one option in free agency would be a lengthy big who can rebound, some possible power forward options have come up.

Danilo Gallinari, Paul Millsap, and Jerami Grant are just a few of the names that have come up as possibilities, but doesn’t Jae Crowder make the most sense?

Obviously he was a clear fit right when he arrived in Miami, since he gave them some more of that defensive grit and even added a bonus with his shooting. Miami did not expect Jae Crowder to shoot at the level that he did to finish the season and for a good potion of the playoffs.

He also gave them great veteran leadership and had an obvious bond in both the locker room and on the floor with a bunch of guys. The college connection with Jimmy Butler, the Boston connection with Kelly Olynyk, and even began to show a front-court connection with Bam Adebayo as they went along.

There’s been discussion about who would fit the best next to Bam. The consensus seems to be a guy like Danilo Gallinari since he can space the floor for Bam so well. But Jae Crowder was doing just that throughout this season, and was a huge reason their defense had such success, which you wouldn’t be getting from Gallinari.

Once again though, it’s not guaranteed that he will be shooting at those same levels all of the time, but they truly don’t need him to when Duncan Robinson and Tyler Herro are on the floor.

It’s all about playing your role on this Heat team, and I’m not sure other power forwards would be as willing to accept a certain role like Jae Crowder would. He’s willing to do a bunch of the dirty work on both sides of the ball, which came up huge for them in a bunch of big time playoff games.

It’s not that Jae Crowder is better than the other options they have a shot at, but it is the most trusted option.

The good thing for Miami is that Jae truly wants to play for this team and live in this city. It’s hopeful that they can give him a one year type deal for this season to keep the 2021 free agency options open, and then take care of him afterward.

And I’m pretty sure Miami knows what Jae Crowder can do for this team going forward as they try and compete for another title.

Miami has already found their fit for Bam Adebayo, and the only other guy that Miami will feel totally fine with replacing him would be Giannis Antetokounmpo in 2021.

Does It Make Sense For Miami To Bring in Harry Giles?

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Harry Giles is another big man option for Miami heading into this off-season for a couple of reasons.

He’s in that in-between stage right now, since he’s only 22 years old but he also has yet to truly prove himself. This means that I don’t believe that teams will be willing to give him a big deal, which means Miami has a shot.

Miami actually gave Harry Giles a look in the 2017 NBA draft, but many teams weren’t willing to take a chance on him due to the injury. But I’d say Miami’s draft selection ended up working out for the best.

Now that Miami is in search of a possible big to add to their roster, it seems as if Giles could be a viable option.

He is solid in basically every single area of his game, since he can rebound, defend, and score both around the rim and from the mid-range.

And even though I’ve discussed in the past that I don’t like the discussion of trying to find a fit for Bam Adebayo, it’s clear that they could play these two together.

He almost seems as if he could potentially be a Bam-lite, which would help this team out tremendously when he’s off the floor.

Obviously nobody can truly fill Bam’s shoes, but he can at least fill them somewhat. His ability to pass for his size was on display this season, and he actually ran a bunch of offensive sets in the spots that Bam does since he has the ability to put the ball on the floor like a point guard.

The issue when Bam went out in the Finals was that nobody could step up and do what Bam does. It’s possible for players to do what Goran Dragic does scoring wise, but you just can’t reiterate a player’s game when they do absolutely everything on the court.

It seems like a pretty ideal option for Miami to get this type of player this off-season, but once again they have so many options. And this one may not be the most realistic since he could potentially get more money elsewhere.

But there’s not a better place for Harry Giles to build up his reputation than with this Heat team.

I believe that Miami could give him a look if other possible signings and re-signings don’t work out.