Miami Heat: Would Kristaps Porzingis Be A Game-Changer For Them?

By Isiah Curry | Jun 10, 2021

MIAMI, FLORIDA - FEBRUARY 28: Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the Dallas Mavericks looks on against the Miami Heat during the second half at American Airlines Arena on February 28, 2020 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

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Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat takes a shot against Kristaps Porzingis #6 of the Dallas Mavericks(Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) /

The Miami Heat need a consistent third guy in their lineup, but can Kristaps Porzingis be consistent?

If the Heat were to pull out all the stops for Porzingis, there are benefits and then there are hindrances. Could Porzingis become that quality third star that they’re looking for, given a history of health and off-court issues?

Porzingis fits the bill for the Miami Heat, a team that’s expected to continue searching for that elusive third star. The Heat thrive on playing in the open-court and if they can acquire a quality three-level scorer in Porzingis, it’s going to reduce offensive pressure on their top options, Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo.

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Whether Kristaps would be a primary and consistent option on most nights remains to be seen, while an ACL tear in 2018 might’ve dwindled those chances. But, if he’s healthy and fully-engaged, it would further balance the league’s sixth lowest-scoring team.

In addition to acquiring that elusive third star, the Heat are in search of a legitimate front-court pairing partner for Adebayo and looking no further, Porzingis has a uniqueness that would compliment Adebayo’s style. He’s a big guy with an ability to space the floor — including from deep-range.

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