All-Star game prospects
So, can Goran Dragic become an all-star this season?
My answer is a resounding yes.
Despite producing his lowest numbers since 2012-13 last season, Dragic has demonstrated that he is the real deal. Whether the starting shooting guard for the Heat is Josh Richardson, Dion Waiters or Wayne Ellington, it won’t matter. This is now Dragic’s team. His usage rate will most likely reach a career high, and the confidence this will bring will most definitely show in his performance.
At age 30, Dragic is still in the prime of his career. He has a relatively low amount of miles on his legs for a starting point guard, since he didn’t play all that much in his first few season. By the way, Steve Nash–someone Dragic models his game after–didn’t win his first MVP until age 31.
Next: Will Willie Reed get an opportunity?
Further validating his all-star potential this season: one of the three point guards whom played with Dragic in his final season in Phoenix was Isaiah Thomas, now of the Boston Celtics. Thomas was the backup with the Suns until Dragic departed due to the logjam. Roll the clock forward and given the right environment, Thomas last year made his all-star debut.
There is absolutely no reason that Dragic can’t repeat Thomas’ efforts. It’s his time to take charge and put the team on his back. It’s something he is more than capable of doing.
And it should ensure an exciting upcoming season for Miami Heat fans.