Free extension for sports fans
Advertisement
Advertisement

Heat Projected to Miss the Playoffs Due to One Clear Problem

The Miami Heat have a new core heading into this season. One analyst believes they will miss the playoffs this season, though.

Published: Tuesday, 13 October 2026 at 4:11 PM
Heat Projected to Miss the Playoffs Due to One Clear Problem
Key Things to Know
  • John Hollinger projects the Miami Heat will finish ninth and miss the playoffs due to poor roster depth.
  • The Heat traded away significant depth to acquire Giannis Antetokounmpo to pair with Bam Adebayo.
  • Hollinger argues Miami lacks two-way wing players and sufficient backcourt playmaking.
The Story in 60 Seconds

The Athletic's John Hollinger projects the Miami Heat will miss the playoffs and finish ninth in the Eastern Conference due to a lack of roster depth. Despite acquiring superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo to pair alongside Bam Adebayo, Miami sacrificed much of its bench depth to complete the blockbuster trade.

Hollinger argues that the roster behind Antetokounmpo and Adebayo is insufficient, noting concerns regarding perimeter defense and playmaking. While Miami added shooters Klay Thompson and Tim Hardaway Jr., team president Pat Riley faces limited draft assets and financial flexibility to make further midseason upgrades.

Advertisement

Never Miss a Sports Update

Get the latest sports news and top stories from MySportsTab delivered straight to your inbox.

No spam. Just the latest sports news and updates.