7. Shabazz Napier, PG
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2014-15 Season Stats (11 Games): 5.2 PPG, 2.8 RPG, 2.4 APG, 20.6 MPG
Erik Spoelstra is utilizing all of his point guards this season, with all averaging above 20 minutes per game. I didn’t expect Spoelstra to trust Napier this much, especially this early into the season.
Napier has earned every minute he’s played, and I believe he will be the starting point guard before season’s end.
He’s a playmaker, shooter and facilitator. This may or may not be an overreaction, but in terms of ball skills and decision-making, Napier reminds me a lot of a young Chris Paul.
Like Ennis and Hamilton, the best is to come for the rookie point guard out of Connecticut.
6. Norris Cole, PG
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2014-15 Season Stats (11 Games): 8.1 PPG, 2.3 RPG, 3.7 APG, 25 MPG
Norris Cole got off to a hot start to the season, scoring 23 points in the first game of the season. Then, well, November came and Cole has gone into a slump.
In November, Cole is averaging 6.6 points, 2.2 rebounds, 3.9 assists in 24.8 minutes of play. Cole is also shooting 39% from the field.
Months like these happen. Players get cold. The best for thing for Cole to do is to keep shooting and take smart shots.
I believe if Spoelstra starts Napier for a game, it will be a wake-up call for Cole to step up. That could ultimately be the best thing for Cole in the end.