OKC Thunder vs. Miami Heat, 2019-20 team preview

Jimmy Buckets:

The shift from Dwyane Wade to Jimmy Butler is about as perfect of a replacement as Riley could ask for.  For as much as Butler has his critics, there is no denying his talent or his effort.  Last spring in the Eastern Conference Semi Finals it was Butler who took control of the 76ers, particularly in clutch time. Recalling the historic walk-off, four rim bounce winning bucket by Kawhi Leonard in Game 7, that shot only becomes necessary if Butler doesn’t take the ball the length of the court for a layin to tie the game.

In the series versus the Raptors, Butler was the 76ers most consistent and reliable player averaging 22 points, 7 rebounds, 5.7 assists, and a steal. The only flaw in his game was the perimeter shooting, but Toronto’s perimeter defense was second to none so that’s forgivable.

Repeatedly in the series, it was Butler who seemingly provided what Ben Simmons (assists) and Joel Embiid (clutch buckets) were supposed to deliver. Likewise, for all of his antics in Minnesota, the fall-off in their production, once Butler was traded, resulted in the Wolves missing the playoffs — again!

Coach Spo:

Constancy is something every club can benefit from and in the case of the Heat, their Head Coach Erik Spoelstra offers a constant voice, approach and reminder of what the Heat culture means. Spoelstra enters his 12th season at the helm where he’s amassed a 9-2 record of getting his squads to the postseason. Riley rewarded his head man with a four-year extension which is well earned.

Many of the seasons the Heat have reached the playoffs it has been with lackluster talent and more often than not Spoelstra’s systems can be credited. Virtually every season the Heat are a top-ranked defensive squad and more than that are tough. Heat players will play you in the season like it’s a Game 7 of the playoffs and credit for this mindset belongs with Spoelstra.

Of all his talents, however, the former film room guy is amazing at adapting both in game situations and to his personnel. Now that there are more players capable of creating shots for others the offense will likely experience tweaks. Part of the issue last year was Dragic was out for a good portion of the season which forced Justise Winslow into the role of point guard and even had Olynyk running the point occasionally. The bottom line is if you give Spoelstra options he’ll use them to create advantages.