3 Heat Greats Who Would Be Even Better if They Played Today
By Tyler Kemp
The Heat have been treated to plenty of success in the 21st century in terms of winning championships. With three NBA Finals victories in five appearances, they are one of the more historic franchises in the modern era. Before the championship days of LeBron, Wade and Bosh, Miami had some great talent that could have translated to today’s NBA. Here are a few players in Miami history who would have been even better today. And no, Alonzo Mourning did not make the cut, as bigs don't have much of an impact in today's game.
3. Eddie Jones
Eddie Jones was a part of the pre-championship Heat era from 2000-2005. During that time, he was averaging anywhere between 17 and 20 points per game in a slower NBA. A career 37% shooter from deep who averaged close to two steals per game, 'Steady Eddie' would have been a perfect 3-and-D wing who can create his own shot at 6-6 in the modern league.
2. Steve Smith
Smith was a part of the early Heat teams of the 90’s. Smith averaged between 16 and 17 points in his first few years in Miami, but his shooting was how he made his bones in the league. If he played in 2020, a career 35% shooter from deep in the 90’s would have even more opportunities in the present day. Smith could also guard multiple positions with his slender 6-7 frame.
1. Tim Hardaway Sr.
Don’t let the slight 6-foot and 175-pound build fool you. Tim Hardaway Sr. broke down every point guard with his killer crossover. Hardaway averaged 17 points and close to eight assists per night in Miami and was also a great shooter for his time at 35%. In today’s NBA, Hardaway would have more transition opportunities to create space for himself and others and a higher clip of threes on a nightly basis.