The Miami Heat aren’t going to be considered a title contender for the next few years. However, the team did take a step forward with the selection of Bam Adebayo at the 2017 NBA Draft.
Adebayo might have the fast track to some big minutes on the Heat’s roster. With Josh McRoberts always breaking down, and James Johnson proving he’s one of the NBA’s most undervalued sixth men, it seems to be Adebayo that will benefit the most.
In only one season at Kentucky, Adebayo proved he was NBA ready. With 13 points and 8 rebounds per contest, he definitely has the statistics to back up his selection. Above all, he’s incredibly strong for an NBA rookie.
Adebayo’s strength will be his biggest weapon. He was much more physical than the opposition in college, something he’ll have to be in the NBA to get an advantage. Standing 6’10 and weighing 260 lbs, it’s easy to see why the Heat drafted him.
Here’s the one fault with Adebayo. He’s got no real post game whatsoever. Yes, he’s strong and can play physical, but there isn’t any finesse to his game down low. That’s going to be something the Miami Heat will need to work on. Also, the lack of a jump shot kills him, as he’s not able to stretch the floor.
Still, Adebayo has the fast track to a starting job sooner rather than later. Miami isn’t expected to be a contender this year, and even if they are, the team can afford to play Adebayo big minutes to get him accustomed to NBA play.
Kentucky products have a history of success at the NBA level. Bam Adebayo is definitely the biggest project out of the schools entire 2017 Draft class. He’s got the size and strength of an NBA superstar, but still, has a lot to work on. If he can develop a stronger post game, we could be looking at a future All-Star.