The Miami Heat made a surprise run to the NBA Finals in 2020 during the Orlando Bubble. They fell to the Los Angeles Lakers in the series, but there was optimism surrounding the team heading into the 2020-21 season.
That optimism faded throughout the season, as Miami was unable to replicate that same magic during the season. Injuries and COVID-19 protocols were a big reason why, as they were unable to gain any traction and consistency.
The team ended up being swept out of the first round by the eventual champion, Milwaukee Bucks. Not wanting that to happen again, Pat Riley and company got to work on upgrading the roster.
Miami didn’t have a selection during the 2021 NBA Draft, but they were aggressive in free agency. They snagged Kyle Lowry in a sign-and-trade with the Toronto Raptors and didn’t allow Duncan Robinson to get stolen by an opposing team, signing the restricted free agent to a five-year, $90 million deal.
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P.J. Tucker was also signed, along with Markieff Morris, to add some much-needed toughness and depth to the frontcourt.
Miami is poised to return to the upper echelon of the Eastern Conference and possibly more during the 2021-22 season. Here are four reasons the Heat should be considered NBA Finals favorites.
