3 Biggest Heat X-factors for the playoffs, including 1 surprise

With the playoffs around the corner, the Miami Heat are still trying to figure out their place in the East standings but we already know that the path to another Finals berth will be tough.

Beyond big-time performances by Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, the Heat had multiple role players step up during last year's playoff run.

But last year -- obviously -- is in the past. Who will step up this year? Here are the three likeliest candidates to serve as Miami's playoff X-factors.

3. Terry Rozier

Terry Rozier showed up Tuesday night against the New York Knicks, showing what he can do when he gets going -- "Scary Terry" was on display.

Rozier is a very streaky scorer and always has been since entering the league, but he can score in a variety of ways and is one of the few guys on the roster who can create his shot.

As an added bonus, Rozier and Bam Adebayo have developed an excellent pick-and-roll game and Rozier, since arriving in Miami, has thrived off the ball as a catch-and-shoot threat.

Rozier can get hot quickly, and you need a guy like that on your roster. During the playoffs, you need to find buckets when the game is more of a half-court game. What Miami needs Rozier to do is hit open threes and create shots when Miami is struggling offensively.