Miami Heat: Top 10 NBA Draft picks in franchise history

7. Sherman Douglas (PG) — No. 28 pick in 1989 NBA Draft

Career stats (with the Heat): 154 GP, 16.3 PPG, 8.1 APG, 2.7 RPG, 1.7 SPG, 0.1 BPG, 3.4 TOV, 49.9 FG%, 14.5 3P%, 68.6 FT%

In just the Heat’s second offseason as a franchise, Sherman Douglas became Miami’s eighth draft pick ever in 1989.

His time in South Florida didn’t last long (barely over two seasons before an ugly holdout, and subsequent trade to the Boston Celtics), but the diminutive point guard was a key part of the transition that pushed the organization towards respectability.

During his two-year stint with the Heat, Douglas led the team in win shares. It’s not difficult to see why, either; his 16.3-point, 8.1-assist and 1.7-steal per game averages are still among the most impressive for a Heat point guard ever.

Although “the General” had no outside shot to speak of, he was still able to enjoy a long 12-year career thanks to his quickness and savviness as a playmaker. He also became known around the league for his absurd ability to create baskets out of thin air.

In all, even despite the fact that Douglas didn’t spend much time in Miami, he’s still an important piece of the team’s history. His group changed the foundation and set up the next batch of Heat stars (like Alonzo Mourning and Tim Hardaway) for success, proving the franchise would not be a laughingstock forever.