**Four Big Men the Miami Heat Could Target from Division Rivals in Free Agency**
**Would these players boost the Miami Heat during non-Bam Adebayo minutes?**
The power forward position once gave us iconic matchups. In the early 2000s, it was at its peak, with legends like Kevin Garnett, Dirk Nowitzki, Amar’e Stoudemire, Pau Gasol, Chris Webber, and Rasheed Wallace all vying for supremacy against Tim Duncan. Currently, Giannis Antetokounmpo leads the position, but the depth of talent isn’t as strong as it was back then.
Conversely, the center position is arguably the deepest in terms of all-time greats. It’s so stacked that even three-time MVP Moses Malone doesn’t make the top five, standing behind Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O’Neal, Bill Russell, Wilt Chamberlain, Hakeem Olajuwon, and Nikola Jokic. Today’s centers may not match those historic standards, but players like Jokic, Joel Embiid, Bam Adebayo, and Anthony Davis are elevating the position with their versatility.
The Heat aren’t likely to snag a superstar big man this offseason, but there are intriguing options within their division.
1. **Goga Bitadze, Orlando Magic
The Orlando Magic were the league’s surprise team this season, taking the Cleveland Cavaliers to seven games and winning the Southeast Division for the first time since 2019. Goga Bitadze was instrumental in their success, stepping up when Wendell Carter Jr. was injured. Averaging nine points and six rebounds over an 11-game stretch in December, Bitadze’s consistent play made some fans advocate for him as a permanent starter. These solid, if unspectacular, numbers could be useful behind Bam Adebayo.
2. **Richuan Holmes, Washington Wizards**
Richuan Holmes could be another solid backup center option. Though he hasn’t played significant minutes since 2022 with the Kings, his active presence on the floor, particularly his 2.4 offensive rebounds per game over a three-year period, could be valuable for the Heat. His energy on the glass contrasts with Thomas Bryant’s less aggressive play this season, making Holmes a potential asset in non-Bam lineups.
3. **Davis Bertans, Washington Wizards**
Adding more shooting is always a consideration for the Heat, even if the shooter isn’t a strong defender. Davis Bertans fits this mold as a player who can comfortably shoot from deep beyond the three-point line. While his lack of versatility has limited his playing time, his shooting prowess could stretch the floor next to Bam Adebayo. However, Bertans would need to improve other aspects of his game. With an early termination option for next season, it’s unlikely he opts out of his $16 million contract.
4. **Mo Wagner, Orlando Magic**
Mo Wagner is arguably the best player and fit among these options. The German big man from Michigan brings court awareness, vision, and intensity, often surprising opponents with his athleticism and strength. The Magic have until June 29th to decide on his $8 million team option. If they let him go, the Heat should act quickly to secure his services.
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