Ranking the 15 most underrated players in Miami Heat history

Jun 19 2012; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat point guard Mario Chalmers (15)lays the ball up between Oklahoma City Thunder power forward Nick Collison (4) and James Harden (13) during the second half of game four in the 2012 NBA Finals at the American Airlines Arena. Miami won 104-98. Mandatory Credit: Larry W. Smith/Pool Photo via USA TODAY Sports /

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With just a few weeks before the start of training camp, the Miami Heat is still very much stuck in Damian Lillard watch. The good news for the Heat is that whether or not the trade ends up happening, Miami figures to play a big role in the Eastern Conference this season.

As the waiting game continues, the offseason is generally a good time to take a path down memory lane. During the NBA summer, it’s always a good time to take a look back at a franchise’s history to give proper context to players who deserve it.

One of the most successful franchises in NBA history, there is a long list of underrated players that have funneled through the Heat system over the year. We look back and rank the 15 most underrated players that ever played for Miami.

15. Joel Anthony (2007-14)

You can’t begin to discuss the most underrated players in Miami Heat history without bringing up Joel Anthony. Looking back at his career, it’s actually quite amazing that he managed to play seven years with the Heat. At his peak, he only averaged three points and four rebounds per game but his presence was truly felt when the Heat’s Big 3 of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh needed a consistent defensive anchor.

Anthony was never truly appreciated by the league as a whole but those inside the Heat organization and the fans know just how important he was to his team. Especially during the Big 3 era in Miami.

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