NBA: 6 Team blueprints that could be on the line in the playoffs

Philadelphia 76ers James Harden (Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports)
Philadelphia 76ers James Harden (Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports)
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Jimmy Butler
Miami Heat Jimmy Butler (Bill Streicher-USA TODAY Sports)

Miami Heat

It’s been somewhat of a disappointing season thus far for the Miami Heat. And I find it hard to believe that there is a path to salvage the year. But that’s the task that the team is dealing with heading into the final few weeks of the regular season. And if they can make the playoffs, that’s the challenge that the team will have. Specifically, Jimmy Butler.

The big question for this team heading into the offseason is whether or not they still believe that they can win the championship with Jimmy as the centerpiece of a build. Because if not, there’s a chance that they should probably think about moving on from the 33-year-old star. With the money that he’s due over the next few seasons ($93 million over the next two years and then a $52.4 million player option for a third year), the Heat has to be sold on the idea that they can add to this blueprint and be competitive.

Right now, they aren’t very competitive in the Eastern Conference. Perhaps they can go on a nice run and have a good showing in the playoffs which will change the tune of this season.