Team Profile
Miami Heat
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109.2 17thOffensive Rating
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111.0 15thDefensive Rating
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-1.8 17thNet Rating
2024 Team Stats
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Points per game110.2 28th
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Points per game Against111.2 30th
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Rebounds per game43.0 28th
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Assists per game25.4 27th
Miami Heat guard Josh Richardson (heel) has been ruled out for Wednesday's season opener against the Orlando Magic. Richardson saw his season come to an early end last year due to a shoulder issue. He appears to be finally over that, but now Richardson is dealing with a left heel injury. The 31-year-old will miss the season opener, but will hopefully be available for Saturday's game against the Charlotte Hornets. Until then, Duncan Robinson and Alec Burks figure to see increased playing time. Neither of them are likely to see enough minutes to warrant rostering in most formats. Between the two, Robinson is the better fantasy option due to his ability to shoot from beyond the arc.
Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler intends "to play as many games as possible" this season. "I don't need to put a number on the amount of games that I play," said Butler after Saturday's practice. "I know the more games that I play, the more opportunities that my squad has of winning. I do know that." There's no question Butler is one of the most talented players in the National Basketball Association. However, he's struggled to stay healthy, logging 65 games or fewer each season since 2016-17, his last with the Bulls. It's important to note the veteran is looking for a new contract, which may give him plenty of incentive to stay on the floor this season. But if he can remain healthy, Butler is at least a top-25 fantasy option.
Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro (groin) won't play in Tuesday's exhibition versus the Hornets. He's dealing with a strained groin, although he'll likely make an appearance during the preseason. Despite trade rumblings over the years, Herro remains on the roster. He averaged a career-high 20.8 points last season with 5.4 rebounds and 4.5 assists. The 24-year-old also shot 39.6% from deep, the second-best mark of his career. Unfortunately, Herro's defense is a liability, and his inability to stay healthy is an even bigger issue. However, if the 2019 No. 13 overall pick can at least stay healthy, he could exceed fantasy expectations this season. As far as Tuesday's contest is concerned, DFS managers could see more action from Pelle Larsson and Nassir Little, considering Jaime Jaquez Jr. (groin) will also be sidelined for that one.
Miami Heat guard Josh Richardson (shoulder) continues working his way back from season-ending shoulder surgery from last March. The 31-year-old is reportedly close to returning and was seen getting up shots after practice earlier this week. Richardson still isn't a full participant in practice, but is expected to be ready by the beginning of the regular season. Richardson could be sidelined for the beginning of training camp, which could mean more reps for Alec Burks and Duncan Robinson. Richardson finished with 9.9 points per game, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.4 assists across 25.6 minutes per game. The expectation is that the Heat will ease Richardson back into action, but he could be an interesting fantasy option once he's back to full health.
Miami Heat shooting guard Tyler Herro came into training camp weighing 200 pounds, the heaviest he's been entering camp, according to Herro. He noted that he has a goal to get stronger, reiterating a previous quote from the 24-year-old in August when he mentioned making an effort to stay as healthy as possible throughout the season. Herro battled multiple injuries in the 2023-2024 season and was limited to just 42 games. When healthy, Herro has been a very productive member of the Heat, whether it be as a sixth man or, more recently, a member of the starting five. He averaged a career-high 20.8 points in 2024 and has been around that mark each of the last three seasons. Fantasy managers will want to snag Herro in their drafts if they can. With a current ADP in the low-70s, Herro should provide value to any managers drafting him as long as he stays healthy.