3. Erik Spoelstra is indisputably a great coach
While it’s an expectation of the Heat every season to reach the postseason, the achievements of Spoelstra cannot be downplayed. Before the arrival of Dwyane Wade in February, Goran Dragic‘s debut in this year’s All-Star Game represented the sole appearance of any player on the Heat roster in the annual event.
In other words, while the Heat had a great deal of depth at each position to utilize, it was Spoelstra’s ability to manipulate his lineups and develop the players at his disposal that has truly enhanced his standing as an elite coach.
Not only did the Heat suffer from a lack of elite talent, but they were also severely hit by the injury bug. Starting center Hassan Whiteside missed 28 games, backup swingman Rodney McGruder missed 64 games, forward Justise Winslow missed 14 games and guard Dion Waiters only managed to play in only 30 games total before succumbing to a season-ending ankle injury.
These significant inconveniences, combined with the overall talent pool of the roster, meant that compiling a 44-38 record and finishing in sixth place in the Eastern Conference is a huge feather in Spoelstra’s cap.