4. Al Horford
The first name that always comes up when discussing a possible Whiteside replacement. A proven and more polished center who will cost essentially the same amount.
Al Horford is a perfect choice for the Heat. He’s a top-tier center in the prime of his career and can contribute on both ends of the floor. Horford’s also developed into a capable perimeter shooter, connecting at a career 34 percent clip from beyond the arc. Not only can he spread the floor, but he started all 82 games last year, which is a testament to his durability.
However, this isn’t a no brainer. Horford will be an expensive choice which could hamper with the team’s chances of signing Kevin Durant, albeit a long shot. Also, if Bosh is healthy, this would mean two 7-footers in the Heat’s starting rotation, which would counter the current direction of the league, which is consistently going smaller.
Next: 3. Old Foe