NBA: 10 way-too-early predictions for the 2019-20 season

Pat Riley will declare a retirement plan

This might sound crazy, but there might not be a better time than now for Miami Heat president to declare some sort of retirement plan – whether it’s one that would take into effect this year or next summer, or in a few years. It’s understandable for Riley not wanting to leave the franchise in a tough spot, and had he retired last year that would have been the case. However, with where the Heat is as a franchise after landing Jimmy Butler, I’m not sure that’s the case anymore.

While the Heat might not be a championship contender, there’s no question that this team is well on the right path. They could be a summer or two away from returning to contender status, which may or may not require Riley to stay on.

Meaning that this could be the perfect time for Riley to have a contingency plan in place and make the necessary moves for him to move on, and possibly leave Dwyane Wade (if he’s up to it), Shane Battier, Alonzo Mourning, Andy Elisburg or Erik Spoelstra in charge.

There’s no question that the Heat wouldn’t be in the position they are right now – both good and bad – without Pat Riley. He’s been a tremendous asset for the franchise. He’ll be forever remembered, and his name will hang in the rafters one day. However, I’m predicting the beginning of the end for Riley and the Heat.