Why the Miami Heat rebounding woes will end this season: Better big men
Despite the offseason losses of Ariza, Andre Iguodala, Precious Achiuwa, and Nemanja Bjelica, the next group of Heat players should provide a more physical poise than we’ve seen in recent years.
Increasing their front-court depth, the Heat signed PJ Tucker and Markieff Morris in free agency. They also retained Dewayne Dedmon and Omer Yurtseven.
After securing a double-double in just his second game with the Heat, Dedmon rebounded at an incredible rate (14.7 per 36 minutes) in 16 regular-season appearances.
Arguably the best late-season pick-up last spring, the eight-year veteran will likely be the first big-man to substitute Adebayo. He has spoken out about embracing this role ahead of the coming season.
Yurtseven is another option who can give Miami a rebounding lift. Currently a wildcard developmental prospect within the Heat’s developmental plan, Yurtseven made strong waves in the G-League and averaged 11.6 rebounds in five Summer League games.
Regardless, the Heat will have the option of placing a larger body on the floor to contend with more sizable opponents. At 7-0, Yurtseven is tied for the tallest player on the roster.