Miami Heat: 5 options for pick No. 14 in 2017 NBA Draft

 2. Zach Collins, PF/C, Gonzaga

There are a multitude of reasons to like Gonzaga’s Zach Collins, but the biggest one (from a Heat perspective) is that he would fill Miami’s most impervious need at power forward. Although he played a lot of minutes at the 5 in college, his agility and quick feet translate to someone who could spend time at the other big man spot at the next level.

Other reasons to like him include the fact he measured in as a legit seven-footer at the combine, while possessing the early makings of a stretch-4.

During Collins’ lone year at Gonzaga, he attempted 21 threes and converted 10. And at a recent pre-draft workout, he looked extremely comfortable knocking down shots from beyond the arc.

It’s an exercise in tiny sample size theater, but the signs are there he’ll be able to space the floor as a power forward in the NBA.

The 19-year-old big also boasts a solid repertoire in the post. He has a killer right-handed hook shot and flashed a Kevin McHale-like up-and-under move various times throughout the season. (He does need to work on his strength so he doesn’t get pushed off of his spots at the next level.)

Additionally, even though his wingspan was verified at an okay-but-not-that-impressive 7-foot-1, Collins uses plus-instincts to protect the paint. His best defensive performance came in the Final Four against South Carolina’s athletic frontcourt, when he sent away six shots. Likewise, for his freshman season he averaged 4.1 blocks(!) per 40 minutes.

If you couldn’t tell, I absolutely love him as a prospect, especially for a team in need of another big like Miami. Collins could slot in as Willie Reed‘s replacement at backup center, or, if he’s further along than expected, at Luke Babbitt‘s spot in the starting rotation next to Whiteside.

The possibilities with this kid are endless. Now, the Heat just have to hope he’s still available at No. 14.