Miami Heat: 2017-18 NBA season preview
By Simon Smith
Predictions
The combination of a healthy roster and a depleted Eastern Conference means there is no excuse for the Heat to miss out on the postseason action this season.
With the Indiana Pacers, Chicago Bulls and Atlanta Hawks — all playoff teams last season — expected to dip significantly this season due to losing their respective signature players, the Heat should be primed to take full advantage of these vacancies in the playoff race.
Furthermore, the heartache of missing out on last seasons playoffs on the last day of the regular season will certainly be etched in the minds of the playing group.
From an individual standpoint, many on the Heat roster clearly have a point to prove. Could one of Goran Dragic, Hassan Whiteside, or Dion Waiters become the first current Heat player to be named an All-Star?
Can Tyler Johnson continue his meteoric rise and vie for Sixth Man of the Year honors? Can Justise Winslow live up the promise of being selected No. 10 overall in 2015?
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So with a combination of strong team and individual goals, posting a 48-34 record, and finishing fourth in the Eastern Conference, should certainly be on the horizon for the Heat in season 2017-18.