3. Miami Heat
At this point in the offseason, there is still very much unsettled for the Miami Heat. They’re still waiting to see if the Damian Lillard trade is going to happen or not and while they did make some additions this offseason, I’m not sure I’d be that optimistic heading into the season if they can’t close the deal for Lillard. Because of the drop-off in the Eastern Conference after the top 2 seeds, there’s a scenario where the Heat finish as the 3-seed. If they remain healthy, there’s not much stopping that from happening. Even more so if they’re able to land Lillard.
In my heart of hearts, I think the Heat ends up with Lillard. I honestly believe it’ll happen just before the start of the season. With the trio of Lillard, Bam Adebayo, and Jimmy Butler, Miami will have the chance to be really good this season. Assuming it happens, there’s a very real scenario where the Heat plays themselves into a favorite in the East.
Just think: a team that made a run to the NBA Finals just added Lillard. How can you not consider the Heat favorites if they land Lillard via trade?