Goran Dragic can be an All-Star this season

Games without Wade

Last season, Dragic played six games in which Wade was absent. His averages in those games: 16.8 points, 6.5 assists in 33.8 minutes per game while shooting 40 percent and posting a 26.3 usage rate.

Most noticeable in this short sample is the usage rate increase. His points, assists and minutes per game all represented an increase on his season averages.

The field goal percentage, however was a significant drop. This should not be a concern, considering Dragic has a career field goal percentage of 47 percent. He’s been one of the most efficient guards in the game throughout his career.

From a personal perspective, the first Miami Heat game I ever attended was the New Year’s Day game this past season against the Dallas Mavericks. The Heat started the game without Dwyane Wade due to illness. When Wade entered the game, the Heat led 36-22 with Dragic already having contributed 11 points and four assists.

It was evident in person the difference with and without Wade on the floor. Without him, Dragic was able to play his game – attacking, hitting mid-range jumpers and playing with supreme confidence. He looked like the best player on the floor, without question.

It’s a small sample size, but one that provided insight into how Dragic could excel without the presence of Wade, despite the Mavs playing like they had just come straight from a long night at club LIV.

Full highlights of the game are above, with a few snippets of Dragic’s play that night.

Next: The Competition