Miami Heat: 3 Reasons Why They Do Have A Championship Roster – Defense
A crucial part of any championship team is playing defense. Take the Golden State Warriors, for example.
While they amazed audiences with their tremendous offensive power, it was their defense and floor coordination that set them apart from their competition. A rare known or talked about fact, it’s entirely true and why Draymond Green, for all his offensive ineptitude, is still an elite piece on a team.
2. Defense
Looking back at all of the teams to win an NBA championship, the majority of them finished top five in team defensive rating. On paper, this Miami Heat roster looks like it will be the best defensive team in the league.
The Heat have several players in their backcourt that can play lockdown defense. That starts with their leader, Jimmy Butler, who is one of the best two-way guards in the NBA.
He led the NBA in steals per game last season and even though he only played 52 games, he was one of the leaders in total deflections with 182. The Heat just signed Kyle Lowry, who ranked fourth last season in most charges drawn.
If he can stay healthy, Victor Oladipo is an excellent defender on and off the ball, as well. The Heat aren’t the biggest team in the league, but they still have plenty of size and in players that can guard multiple positions.
For example, their recent acquisition in P.J. Tucker can guard every position. The Heat also have Bam Adebayo.
His role as a defensive anchor is critical. He can protect the rim, but he can also guard smaller players along the perimeter.
Lastly, the Heat have a lot of tough players on their team that can get into the other team’s head. While their recent signings of P.J. Tucker and Markieff Morris are more physically tough, Jimmy Butler is mentally tough.
Udonis Haslem to embark on 19th season with Heat. https://t.co/VvGBp7UHeC It will be another veteran-minimum contract for the Heat captain, which brings the roster to 14 and the cusp of the NBA luxury tax.
— Ira Winderman (@IraHeatBeat) August 11, 2021
He exuberates confidence for the rest of the Miami squad on the defensive end. According to Ira Winderman, the Heat also just brought back Udonis Haslem, who motivates the team through his toughness.
Although there are several teams in the NBA that have incredible offensive talent, the Heat should make it very difficult for any team to score. Their ability to bother playmakers and shooters will make them a team opponents will not want to play, especially in the playoffs.