The Miami Heat want to remind the NBA community why they made it to the Finals just a year ago after losing to the eventual champion Boston Celtics in the first round of the playoffs last season. But the Heat had a curious offseason this summer. The addition of center Bam Adebayo to a long-term deal extension was arguably their best decision. They did, however, make a number of sound external maneuvers. The squad acquired Josh Christopher and Alec Burks. In addition, they selected Kel’el Ware, who appeared to be a great value in the Summer League. However, Miami’s recent acquisition of Nassir Little was one of their most underappreciated decisions.
A week prior to the start of training camp, the 24-year-old inked a contract with the Heat. This summer, Little worked out with a number of teams, including the Celtics and Golden State Warriors. But in the end, he found himself in Miami. The Florida native talked candidly about why he chose to join with the Heat in spite of “other opportunities” in a recent interview with Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald (subscription needed).
When asked why he decided to accept a non-guaranteed contract with the Heat, Little responded, “I simply felt like they valued the sort of player that I am the most with Miami.” Indeed, there were other chances. However, I received the impression that Miami’s standing with players like myself and the discussions I had with the local personnel were not as strong as those of any of the other clubs. “All that mattered to me was that I felt like they wanted me. “YYou want the team you are contemplating to want you as much as you want to go there when it comes to decisions like that. They really seemed to want me the most, in my opinion.
Miami Heat Signee Reveals Why He Joined the Team
Where Nassir Little Fits With the Miami Heat
A non-guaranteed contract applies to Little. He is obviously not guaranteed a spot on the team’s squad for the start of the regular season. However, if the Heat choose to retain Little, he has a lot to give. He is a slasher and a dynamic player. Additionally, Little has significantly improved his perimeter game since joining the league, despite the fact that he is not a true three-point threat (career 33% from beyond the arc). He is also a good defender, albeit not very good. Little is a small forward by nature at 6’5″. He is adaptable, though, and can even play power forward if necessary.
It is not a given that the former first-round pick will make the roster. On the court, though, he can be helpful and offers good depth.
The Last Word On Nassir Little
Little is a gifted athlete who merits a place in the NBA. Miami appears to be a suitable location for him as well. Little fits the mold of the Heat, who know how to bring forth the best in latent talent.
Leave a Reply