The Athletic NBA Daily The Athletic NBA Daily

Miami Heat Season Preview

Sep 30, 2026 · 28m

Summary

Wes Goldberg analyzes the Miami Heat's transformation after acquiring Giannis Antetokounmpo, highlighting their elite defensive identity and new shooting depth from Clay Thompson and Tim Hardaway Jr. The discussion identifies Davion Mitchell as the critical X-factor who must elevate his playmaking to facilitate the offense for the star duo. Goldberg predicts the Heat will contend for the Eastern Conference Finals, with Pel Larson emerging as a potential Sixth Man of the Year candidate.

Topics discussed

Sponsors: Booth, Toast, Granger, and The Athletic Introduction and Miami Heat preview setup Projected starting lineup and Clay Thompson's role Key factors: Yannis Antetokounmpo's health Davon Mitchell as the team's X-factor Pick-and-roll dynamics with Bam and Yannis Defensive identity and potential slippage Pella Larson as a hidden gem and 6th man Shooting consistency and Yannis's gravity Sponsors: Navy Federal, Onit, and Study.com Yannis's impact and the team's underrated status Floor and ceiling: Play-in to Eastern Finals Maximizing Bam Adebayo's offensive role Three predictions for the upcoming season Potential trades and roster moves Buyout targets and Spoelstra's system Eastern Conference stability and Heat's identity Closing remarks and thanks Sponsors: Perk, Granger, and Study.com
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