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Should the Miami Heat target Ben McLemore in free agency?

By Simon Smith

Nov 1, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Ben McLemore (23) shoots the ball over Miami Heat forward James Johnson (16) during the first half at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 1, 2016; Miami, FL, USA; Sacramento Kings guard Ben McLemore (23) shoots the ball over Miami Heat forward James Johnson (16) during the first half at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Mandatory Credit: Kelley L Cox-USA TODAY Sports /

Arguments for signing Ben McLemore

Highly rated following one season at Kansas (he was ruled academically ineligible for his freshman season), McLemore has all the tools to become a legitimate performer for many years to come.

Here are some of the most notable compliments from the very reputable Draft Express following his solitary college season:

"An outstanding weapon in the open court due to his speed and explosiveness, McLemore gets out in transition regularly, although he struggles at times when forced to lead the break himself. He sports excellent shooting mechanics, being very reliable with his feet set, and showing solid range. Blessed with the athleticism to elevate and create separation from defenders, he’s capable of coming off curls and getting a clean look off."

Still just 24, these traits mentioned here certainly haven’t vanished. With a dysfunctional culture, and an overpowering presence such as DeMarcus Cousins, at the forefront of his four seasons in Sacramento, not all the blame can lie at the feet of McLemore for not living up to the high billing surrounding him entering the league.

McLemore’s most productive season was his second in the league, starting all 82 games while averaging 12.1 points in 32.6 minutes per game, including 35.8 percent shooting from behind three. Last season, McLemore shot at an impressive 38.2 percent clip from downtown, a career-high.

In line with the coaching and ownership instability that McLemore has experienced in his career has been the Kings’ front office moves over the last four years. After being drafted in 2013, here are some of the moves made by the Kings that have placed a dent into McLemore’s development:

  • 2014 NBA Draft – selected shooting guard Nik Stauskas
  • July 2015 – signed shooting guard Marco Belinelli
  • July 2016 – signed shooting guard Aaron Afflalo
  • July 2016 – signed swingman Garrett Temple
  • February 2017 – traded for shooting guard Buddy Hield

While it doesn’t completely absolve McLemore for his stagnation, these moves would certainly have a detrimental effect on the psyche of a player, especially a player such as McLemore who’s still trying to establish himself in the league.

McLemore’s best all-round game last season came during a home win against the Atlanta Hawks. Given the chance to start, McLemore recorded 22 points, nine rebounds, four steals and three assists including 6-of-10 shooting from three-point range.

When he is flowing, such as this game, McLemore’s athleticism and impeccable shooting form make you wonder why such a performance is not more of a regular occurrence.

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