1) Goran Dragic
The Miami Heat’s starting point guard of five seasons found a new role this season, on the bench behind Kendrick Nunn. Goran Dragic started just one game the entire season thus far.
And when the season’s hiatus commenced, he stood as one of the more likely candidates for the annual Sixth Man of the Year award. Dragic posted 16.1 points, 5.1 assists, and 3.1 rebounds on a 43/37/76 shooting split as the leader of the second unit.
Now headed for free agency, he’ll need to be Miami’s top priority in the offseason, strictly in regards to their own free agent personnel. With the big free agency splash a year away, the Heat have long been rumored to be interested in signing Dragic to a lucrative one-year deal.
The market will no doubt be vast for the veteran point guard, with teams like the Los Angeles Lakers and Chicago Bulls rumored to have interest. But Dragic is happy and content in Miami. There’s a large possibility that he could sign on an even more friendly and longterm deal to stay with the Heat.
The chances are that if the team comes out and makes it clear he’s a priority, the two sides should be able to get a deal done that appeases both parties. Look for Dragic on opening night next year.
The Miami Heat will have a number of guys looking for new contracts this summer. How they prioritize each and every player will play a large part in their successes next season.