2. Udonis Haslem (2003-Present)
Udnois Haslem is far from the most talented or skilled player to ever wear a Miami Heat uniform, but he is probably one of the most respected and a big time fan favorite. Haslem signed with the Heat as an undrafted free agent in 2003 and has stuck with the team since.
Despite being undrafted, Haslem played in the rookie challenge game at the all-star break and was named to the All-NBA Second Rookie team in 2003-2004. He then became the starting power forward the next season for the Heat when Lamar Odom and Brian Grant were traded to LA for Shaq. He would hold onto that starting role for the Heat’s 2006 NBA championship run and became a Heat leader and captain in later years.
Until the 2009-2010 season, Haslem was a starter for the Heat, until the Heat drafted Michael Beasley and allowed the second overall pick from the 2008 a chance to win the starting role.
Haslem’s best single season came during 2007-2008 season, when he averaged 12 points and 9 rebounds per game on 46% shooting from the field. Haslem has averaged 8.2 points and 7.2 rebounds per game in his 12-year Miami Heat and NBA career. His hustle and unselfishness have been his calling cards.
Haslem reportedly turned down huge money deals during the LeBron James off-season to remain in Miami with good pal Dwyane Wade. He has since then been rewarded with loyalty and contracts from the Heat front office, despite not being the same caliber player he was before LeBron came to Miami.
Haslem’s best moment for the Heat has to be this one:
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