Miami Heat DVOA, Stats, & NBA Rankings

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.

Golden State Warriors forward Andrew Wiggins (illness) practiced on Monday. While he didn't log a full session, he's moving in the right direction. The veteran is coming off the worst season of his career, averaging 13.2 points, 4.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 2023-24. With Klay Thompson now in Dallas, expectations are high for Wiggins, so there is bounce-back potential. At any rate, he won't suit up for Wednesday's preseason matchup with the Kings, meaning Moses Moody, Jonathan Kuminga, Kyle Anderson, and Lindy Waters III could see more action. However, Wiggins should be ready to begin the 2024-25 campaign.

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.

Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler said on Monday, "I gotta prove that I'm a major part of winning," in response to not receiving a contract extension ahead of his player option for the 2025-2026 season. Butler is entering the third year of his three-year $146M contract with the Miami Heat, making the 2024-2025 season potentially Butler's final season with Miami if he does not opt into his player option next season. The 35-year-old has led the Heat to the playoffs in each of his five seasons with Miami, including two Finals appearances. Injuries have limited his ability to stay on the court but he has been productive when healthy, averaging 21.3 PPG, 6.1 RPG and 5.7 APG as a member of the Heat. With a contract year on deck, fantasy managers may be intrigued by the extra effort Butler may give this season and should target him in drafts. His current ADP of 50 may provide some value if Butler is able to stay healthy.