Top 5 Miami Heat Small Forwards Of All Time

Apr 13, 2015; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat forward Luol Deng (9) is pressured by Orlando Magic forward Aaron Gordon (00) during the second half at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

The Miami Heat have had an impressive array of talent step into their locker room in their 27 seasons of existence. Their crop of small forwards are a “Who’s Who” of former All-Stars, at one time or another, which have helped the Heat reach championship levels.

As we gear up for what expects to be a very intriguing season, let’s look back at some of those small forwards that have made their presence felt over the years.

What I found interesting about the Heat’s history with small forwards is that outside of certain players, they’ve rotated guys in and out over the years. It’s made this list kind of interesting. So I’ve had to find a way to narrow the crop of players down.

Some disclaimers:

– This list is based on time with the Heat, so whatever a player did before or after their time in Miami is irrelevant.

– Longevity helps. Guys like Luol Deng (one season), Antoine Walker (two seasons), and Lamar Odom (one season) won’t get special treatment. This includes Caron Butler, who only played two seasons with the Heat, and was injured and slumping his second season. Let’s face it: we liked him because he was good enough to help the Heat get Shaquille O’Neal.

– Intangibles are important. Some guys might not score 30 points a night, but they might help in their own ways to help the Heat win. What did they mean to the Heat? We like the guys that do the little things.

With that out of the way, let’s go to number five.

Next: The Original Heat Lifer