Miami Heat 2016-17 player preview: Luke Babbit

Mar 26, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Luke Babbitt (8) shoots over Toronto Raptors guard Norman Powell (24) during the second half of a game at the Smoothie King Center. The Raptors defeated the Pelicans 115-91. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 26, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Luke Babbitt (8) shoots over Toronto Raptors guard Norman Powell (24) during the second half of a game at the Smoothie King Center. The Raptors defeated the Pelicans 115-91. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
3 of 5
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports

What Babbitt does well

Babbitt’s versatility is something the certainly stands out, with his ability to score in a number of ways. Having the ability at six foot nine to put the ball on the floor and get off his own shot is a real strength. As seen on the video, he definitely has a great nose for the ball in terms of his offensive rebounding of his own shots. His length and clear basketball smarts give him the ability to perform a number of skills.

Furthermore, Babbitt is very comfortable scoring within the scope of the teams offence. Per NBA.com, 68.9 of Babbitt’s scoring last season was assisted from a teammate. In continuing with Miami’s theme this off-season, catch-and-shoot is a real strength of Babbitt’s. Having also added shooters including Wayne Ellington and Dion Waiters, Babbitt clearly appealed to the Heat. With perimeter and three-point shooting being an achilles heel in recent seasons, Babbitt is certainly qualified to assist in this area.

Babbitt gives the Heat a number of options with their lineups this season. With Chris Bosh’s versatility departing, Babbitt’s size and ability to stretch the floor can be a great compliment for the teams offence. And with fellow ‘lefty’ Josh McRoberts’ short term future uncertain, an early spot in the rotation could certainly be on the cards.

Loading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations