Miami Heat: Addition of Jimmy Butler sparks optimism for 2019-20
By Simon Smith
Best-case scenario
After a 39-win season, the only way is up for the Miami Heat in 2019-20. With the addition of Jimmy Butler, one measurement that can be used is the difference Butler made with his arrival in Minnesota. Having won just 31 games the season prior, the Wolves ramped this up to 47 wins due to Butler’s impact and would’ve been higher had Butler not missed 23 games.
Aside from Butler’s likely impact, some other factors will need to occur for the Heat to rise significantly up the standings. The pressing point guard issue will need to be fully resolved early in the season. With Justise Winslow the assumed starter at this stage, Goran Dragic will need to fully accept a new full-time role as an elite sixth man.
Having watched the impact Dwyane Wade had in the role last season, Dragic, in a contract year, should be fully motivated to follow suit.
Furthermore, the integration of the other new faces will be vital to their success. Already, first-round draft selection Tyler Herro has received rave reviews, from coaches and players alike. Possessing all the traits of a prototypical Heat player, Herro will be given every chance for significant minutes from opening night.
Additionally, Meyers Leonard will be asked to perform an integral role with the departure of Whiteside. While not expected to play significant minutes, Leonard’s role in the rotation can’t be understated.
Overall, with the Milwaukee Bucks and Philadelphia 76ers the two clear current favorites to lead the Eastern Conference, a strong argument can be put forth that, all things going to plan, a No. 3 seed is a more than realistic goal.
Worst-case scenario
Given his recent track record at previous stops, a wild blowup from Jimmy Butler can never be fully counted out. Having had major issues with Fred Hoiberg while with the Chicago Bulls, Butler then lasted just over a season with the Timberwolves before his well-documented blowup at a practice, where he essentially signed his papers to get out of town.
Then with the Philadelphia 76ers, Butler had a widely reported run-in with head coach Brett Brown at a film session, with Butler also criticizing Brown’s overall offensive system. With new teammates such as James Johnson and Udonis Haslem never afraid of confrontation, things could certainly go awry if such an occurrence blew up this season.
Furthermore, the duo of Johnson and Dion Waiters certainly have a point to prove following back-to-back underwhelming seasons. While each has struggled primarily due to injury, there’s no certainty that either will return to the heights they displayed during their first season with the Heat, when they essentially resurrected their careers.
Ultimately, having finished 26th in offensive rating last season, if this new-look roster is unable to gel and improve greatly in this area, a rise up the standings could be more of a dream than a reality.