The Miami Heat’s draft situation was filled with uncertainty throughout the season, with various trades and playoff outcomes impacting where they would land in the upcoming draft.
Initially, it seemed that the Heat might hold a higher pick, but things took a turn when they traded Jimmy Butler to the Golden State Warriors.
This trade ultimately resulted in the Heat acquiring the 20th overall pick in the draft. Meanwhile, Miami’s draft pick was sent to Oklahoma City due to the team’s success in making the playoffs.
As Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald reports, this series of events has left the Heat in a position where they must adjust their draft strategy. While they won’t be part of the lottery, the team remains focused on making the most of the pick they do have.
“This time is the recalibration,” said Adam Simon, the Heat’s vice president of basketball operations and assistant general manager.
“You find out where you’re picking. If you’re in the lottery, you go from there. But that’s not the case for us right now. And then we’re waiting for the early entry list to come out, and that basically fires off the gun to start the race to the draft.”
For Miami, the draft may not present the same level of high-profile decisions as it would for teams in the lottery, but the Heat are preparing to make the most out of their 20th pick.
The focus now shifts to evaluating potential prospects, and once the early entry list is released, the Heat will begin ramping up their preparations for draft day.
Southeast Notes: Salaun, Mann, Magic Playoff Series, Heat Picks https://t.co/fXn8H9Kxch pic.twitter.com/MnNbaccwG2
— Hoops Rumors (@HoopsRumors) April 25, 2025
