Miami Heat: Is Anyone not excited to potentially see KZ Okpala?
By Max Marshall
The Miami Heat landed KZ Okpala early in the second round of last year’s draft. Could he ready to jump into the mix and make his mark?
Miami Heat fans have been waiting for the day for Heat Twitter legend, KZ Okpala, to crack the rotation and it seems like this is the year. Even though Okpala is a cult hero on Heat Twitter already, he has the potential to crack the rotation due to his defensive prowess and toolbox.
On Twitter, Miami fans like to compare Okpala to a young Giannis Antetokounmpo. While it definitely is a stretch to compare the two, I’d be lying to you if there weren’t comparisons that could be made between the two.
Both have long wingspans and have open floor potential. But right now that is a pipe dream for Miami fans.
For Okpala, the time is now for him to crack the rotation and make Heat Twitter proud. Okpala talked to the media Wednesday, specifically noting that his body fat is at 5.5 percent.
Even though Okpala didn’t play at all this year, he still kept his body in “Heat shape”. For a young player who isn’t playing to still be in shape speaks to his discipline.
KZ Okpala has the physical tools to be special for the Miami Heat, but can he put them all together?
Okpala has long arms and can be a factor in Miami’s 2-3 zone, much like Derrick Jones Jr. did last year for Miami. Okpala can put the ball on the floor, while Jones Jr. had a hard time putting the ball on the floor.
Okpala is a solid passer as well. At Stanford, Okpala really whipped the ball to shooters, which should be an asset to Miami’s offense with all of their shooting.
Okpala is an above the rim finisher as well and is very good in transition. He has the potential to be a one-man fast break once he gathers a head of steam.
Okpala has Miami Heat fans excited for an already exciting season. Hopefully, Miami fans slow down with Okpala and let him develop because this will be his first year getting real minutes ( hopefully).
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Okpala has the tools to get minutes with his defensive versatility. Miami took their time with Okpala last year and wanted to develop him in the G-League.
This was the right move when you consider the depth of the roster last season but now the opportunity is ripe for his taking. Let’s hope he excels more sooner than later.