Miami Heat: Shabazz Napier Is Starting To Impress

Considering the amount of scrutiny and attention on Shabazz Napier, you really couldn’t be blamed for thinking he was the top overall pick or something. His every single move is analyzed with a fine-tooth comb and it’s all thanks to LeBron James.

Were it not for James, Napier might have gone under the radar having been selected with the 24^th overall pick by the Charlotte Hornets. However, his sensational endorsement on Twitter led to a great deal of interest on the Connecticut product.

Heck, it’s not too far-fetched to believe Charlotte drafted him that high (was initially seen as an early second-round pick at best) because of the interest generated by James and Miami’s team president, Pat Riley, who reluctantly traded for him in order to woo the King.

Admittedly, it would be unfair (and quite simply wrong) to say that’s the only reason he was selected 24^th overall, especially when you consider that he is a two-time NCAA Champion who led the Huskies to their fourth title in history during his senior campaign. Although, having watched Napier during the NBA Summer League, one can’t be blamed for thinking otherwise.

The rookie struggled mightily as he accumulated 43 turnovers in 10 games and had trouble finding the bottom of the net having hit just 32-of-107 — for a 29.9 field-goal percentage — primarily because he settled for jumpers rather than drive the lane. Defensively, he wasn’t shining either as he looked lethargic and out of sorts.

As we get deeper into the preseason, though, it seems the 23year-old is finally getting comfortable and is starting to show glimpses of why James rated him so highly.

Napier scored 14 points with two assists on Friday night in Miami’s win over the Warriors in addition to providing 12 points along with four dimes in their loss to Atlanta on Tuesday. He also got his chance to face his admirer, James when the Heat were in Brazil last weekend, finishing with 16 points as well as dishing out seven assists in just 19:40 of game time, during the loss.

A key aspect of his game that he has displayed several times this preseason has been his “clutch-ness.” On several occasions, Napier has put Miami over the edge with some big-time plays down the stretch i.e. against the Orlando Magic, when he helped force overtime and secure the lead, or when he rallied the Heat to force another OT against the Cavs. Granted it’s only preseason where the games are practically meaningless but it is still impressive and fun to watch.

The latest showcase by Napier came against the reigning NBA Champions, San Antonio Spurs on their home floor and boy did Napier show-out. He had a pep in his step as he sprung around the court for some beautiful step-back jumpers in addition to blowing by defenders and getting to foul-line.

That was no doubt his best game as pro but so far he staying humble, saying he is “still just trying to learn and understand,” although he did mention that he now “understand(s) ways to get around people” which was clear to see as he got to the free-throw line for 14 – converted 12 of them.

If he continues to play this well, surely coach Erik Spoelstra will have a significant decision to make as to which of his three point guards (Napier, Mario Chalmers and Norris Cole) will get the most playing time. We’re still a ways away from reaching that crossroad since Spo insists he’s “not coming to any conclusions right now,” with regards to Napier. Still, should he continue at this rate, that shouldn’t be too far down the line.

Even if he doesn’t see much playing time now, at least Shabazz Napier has won himself an important admirer: Dwyane Wade. Per Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson:

"“He has figured out how to be successful within his limits of height,” Wade said. “He’s a tough kid. I’ve seen that early in training camp. He’s only getting better every time he steps on the floor.”"

First LeBron, now Wade, looks like Napier is building up an impressive list of fans. No doubt the rest of Heat-Nation will follow suit…if they haven’t already, that is.