If you’re into NBA mock drafts, most analysts expect the Miami Heat to draft a guard with the 20th pick in June’s draft.
The Heat acquired the pick from the Golden State Warriors in the Jimmy Butler trade and could use it to fortify a backcourt in need of depth after Terry Rozier’s mysterious pumpkin turn and Dru Smith’s unfortunate Achilles injury.
Of course, Miami has other needs and could trade the pick for a star player this summer. But, in the event that they keep the pick, here’s who the mock drafts have the Heat taking in the first round.
ESPN – Nolan Traore, point guard, France
ESPN’s Jaremy Woo says the Heat would benefit from adding a true point guard who can help Tyler Herro move off the ball and fill a longterm need in the backcourt.
“Traore would amount to a big swing if he falls to this spot,” writes Woo. “Some scouts view him as a lottery-worthy talent, but an inconsistent season in France has put a damper on his draft stock. His size and speed, playmaking ability and promise as a shooter offer obvious upside if he can put everything together.”
The Ringer – Will Riley, wing, Illiois
At 6-foot-8 with a stringbean frame, Riley is toolsy but considered a raw perimeter prospect that will need time to mature at the NBA level. However, according to The Ringer, he has the qualities that speak to the Heat.
“But he’s tough-minded and seeks challenges, which is a fit for the (much-advertised) personality of the Heat organization. The path for Riley isn’t hard to see, and Miami, given its history of development, would be a great place for his game to mature.”
The Athletic – Walter Clayton Jr., guard, Florida
The Heat have already been to California to scout Clayton in person. You can read our scouting report on Clayton here. However, the gist is that he’s an advanced shot-maker who utilizes footwork and angles to create his looks. Despite the questions on defense, most expect Clayton to come off the board by the end of the first round.
“The level of shot-making that Clayton can showcase at times is truly special,” writes Sam Vecenie. “He can get to his shot from any footwork or any angle on the court, especially from distance. He’s comfortable using a change-of-pace dribble to get to a stepback, and then can also attack and drive off that to score around the rim.”
Yahoo – Nique Clifford, guard, Colorado State
Clifford is on the older side for a prospect (23) but he’s a tough combo guard who can defend multiple positions and shot 38% on 3s as a college senior. He’s been compared to Josh Hart and Desmond Bane.
“It’s hard to imagine the Heat going with a raw project in the draft,” writes Kevin O’Connor. “Which is why Clifford makes a ton of sense: He is a tough-as-nails wing who does it all. He defends multiple positions, crashes the boards and scores from everywhere.”