Miami Heat 2016-17 player preview: Goran Dragic

Goran Dragic enters the 2016-17 season as the man in charge for the Miami Heat. We take a look at how far he can lead this new-look team this season.

This season, Goran Dragic will be granted the wish he was after when he requested a trade from the Phoenix Suns to the Miami Heat – his own team. Having found himself in an unfortunate situation in Phoenix, the Heat swooped immediately and signed the aggressive point guard. And whilst he has to wait over 18 months playing idle next to Dwyane Wade, his time is now. And whilst the Heat have publicly stated they wanted to retain Wade, they really knew it was time to hand over the reigns.

Dragic’s responsibility to the team has further intensified due to the untimely departure of Chris Bosh. Furthermore, the Heat will be featuring three new regular starters. Last years rookies Josh Richardson and Justise Winslow will almost certainly sled into the two and three slots. Bosh’s place in the lineup still remains uncertain.

In the press-conference for his contract extension in 2015 featured in the video above, Dragic stated he prefers a fast pace and to attack. The makeup of the Heat for 2016-17 is clearly designed with this in mind. Quick and athletic players with ability to play multiple positions and shoot with range are a real feature of the team this coming season.

And with a host of new names, Dragic’s assertiveness and experience are going to be crucial to gel the playing group together.