It would be safe to assume that most Miami Heat fans were left unimpressed by the organization’s lack of activity over this offseason. They have clearly decided to run it back and trust this roster for at least another season, despite their first-round playoff exit at the hands of the Boston Celtics.
In many ways, it makes sense. The Heat reached the NBA Finals just a couple of seasons back. And there is room for growth in this roster.
Perhaps Tyler Herro will finally make that long-awaited leap and he has shown massive improvements in defense this preseason. Players like Jaime Jaquez Jr and Nikola Jovic are expected to get better as well. And there is a ton of potential in Kel’el Ware, heading into his rookie season.
That does not mean that the Heat were not linked with some high-profile names over the summer. DeMar DeRozan is one of those who was believed to be on their radar.
According to a report from Sam Amick and Anthony Slater on The Athletic, league sources say that DeRozan explored scenarios with the Philadelphia 76ers, Heat, San Antonio Spurs and Golden State Warriors as he searched for a market value deal. But he had grown more fond of the Sacramento idea as time went on.
DeRozan eventually departed the Chicago Bulls and ended up signing a three-year, $74 million deal with the Kings. It is not hard to understand the decision. They have solid young stars and are a team on the rise.
As for the Heat, the outlook around their chances this season has changed following some impressive performances in preseason. After dropping the first game, they have won four straight with a number of players, including the rookies, impressing.
Of course, it is never a good idea to look too much into preseason performances but they have certainly caused the Heat fans’ optimism to grow drastically.