NBA: Top 10 candidates to be first-time All-Stars in 2017-18

8 of 11

Photo by Issac Baldizon/NBAE via Getty Images /

4. Goran Dragic

Hassan Whiteside is the face of the Miami Heat now, but Goran Dragic was their best player last year, finally showing what he’s capable of without having to share ball-handling duties with Dwyane Wade.

The Dragon had his best season since his Most Improved Player of the Year campaign in 2013-14, averaging a team-high 20.3 points, 5.8 assists and 3.8 rebounds per game on .475/.405/.790 shooting splits. Once he was finally entrusted with the keys to Erik Spoelstra’s system, he didn’t disappoint.

With continuity on their side, the Heat will be looking to replicate their 30-11 finish to the season throughout the 2017-18 campaign. The 31-year-old Dragic will be key in doing so, and after being snubbed for an All-Star spot during his best year with the Phoenix Suns, he may finally earn this overdue honor.