Updating the Miami Heat’s 2017-18 depth chart after the draft

Jan 21, 2017; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats forward Edrice Bam Adebayo (3) shoots the ball against South Carolina Gamecocks guard Duane Notice (10) in the second half at Rupp Arena. Kentucky defeated South Carolina 85-69. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 21, 2017; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats forward Edrice Bam Adebayo (3) shoots the ball against South Carolina Gamecocks guard Duane Notice (10) in the second half at Rupp Arena. Kentucky defeated South Carolina 85-69. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports
4 of 5

Power Forward

Feb 24, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat forward Josh McRoberts (4) dribbles the ball against the Golden State Warriors during the second half at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 24, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat forward Josh McRoberts (4) dribbles the ball against the Golden State Warriors during the second half at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

Starter: Josh McRoberts

Backup: Okaro White

This is where many Heat fans will be confused. Let’s remember that James Johnson and Luke Babbitt, the two starters at this position, are both impending free agents. If Johnson returns, then he is clearly the starter at this position. Babbitt would also start over McRoberts if the Heat decide to bring him back.

However, with this current roster McRoberts would get the start. That is if he can stay healthy of course. McRoberts does possess great playmaking ability with his vision, and is a good outside shooter, finishing the season with a 41.9% shooting percentage from 3.

He can be utilized as a stretch 4 in the starting lineup with his shooting. He may not be the most reliable player, and is frequently injured. The Miami Heat will sign someone in free agency to take over the role of starting power forward. However, as this roster is currently constructed, McRoberts gets the nod over Okaro White. His experience and court vision gives him the edge over White.

Please remember, this an updated depth chart based on how the roster is currently constructed. Free agency will cause big changes to the lineup. Don’t freak out. Let’s take some deep breaths.