An interesting take on Miami Heat’s role in Lebron James’ peak

There have been many great Miami Heat players throughout the history of their franchise and time in the NBA, starting with Dwyane Wade, the greatest player in franchise history.

And though Dwyane Wade holds the title of being the greatest player in franchise history, for all of his accomplishments, how they happened, and the fact that he was the cornerstone from which this Miami Heat team won their first championship— he is not the greatest player to have ever played for the franchise.

Though he is the second greatest player to ever play for the franchise, the first greatest player to have ever played for the Miami Heat is arguably the greatest player of all time, LeBron James. And to that notion, many would argue that his Miami Heat tenure, those four years from 2010 to 2014, were his greatest years ever.

But there’s another unique perspective being offered, one that merges the previous one with another one, and it actually makes a ton of sense. But first, here’s the theory.

The Miami Heat are totally responsible for Lebron James reaching his peak, but they may have only taken part in part of it.

It comes from Al Horford on an appearance with JJ Redick and his The Old Man & The Three Podcast.

When you look at Horford’s sentiments, they are probably close to right for a few reasons. At this particular point, LeBron James had gone to Miami to learn his body and how to win in a dominant fashion.

Taking that enhanced game and know-how back to Cleveland, but with a more streamlined and athletic body, he would also develop a greater shooting touch—one he began to hone in during his years in Miami.

It was at this point that LeBron could be dominant from the inside, outside, and everywhere in between. He would also be able to win titles while carrying more of the burden on himself as well, playing alongside a less-stellar duo than he did in Miami.

And that’s why, mostly for the aforementioned reasons, though possibly a few others in lesser fashions, Horford might just have a point here.