Miami Heat is competing in the playoffs and surprising everyone with their secret weapon of snubbed players from the draft. The Heat’s Secret Weapon? Players Who Were Snubbed on Draft Night, according to recent reports. These undrafted players took their rejection as motivation to show their worth on the court. Miami Heat drafted Duncan Robinson in 2018 and he has been instrumental in the team’s success. Robinson was once ignored by every team during the draft night. Now, he holds the record for the most 3-pointers in his first two years in the NBA.
Head coach, Erik Spoelstra believes that these undrafted players have a fire in them that the others do not. The players need to work harder, longer, and smarter to get a chance in the NBA. An unwavering work ethic and the ability to capitalise on opportunities sets them apart from the rest. The Miami Heat team comprises Kendrick Nunn, Max Strus, and Gabe Vincent in addition to Robinson.
Max Strus joined the Heat after the Boston Celtics waived him. Strus admits that he never thought he would make it in the NBA. But, his hard work paid off, playing a vital role in the Heat’s recent victory against the Brooklyn Nets. His commitment, resilience and attention to detail earned him high praise from Spoelstra. Strus also said that the Heat’s culture and support played a crucial role in his success.
Gabe Vincent also credits the Heat’s culture for his success. “My time in Sioux Falls with the Heat helped me to develop my game and allowed me to become a better player. The Heat’s organisation is all about hard work and grit, and for an undrafted player like me, it’s the perfect place to be,” said Vincent. Kendrick Nunn, the 2019-20 Rookie of the Year, plays with a similar intensity, leading the team in points per game in his first season. Nunn was undrafted due to a domestic violence charge but has proved that he is back on the right track.
Undrafted players are becoming more common, and NBA teams are taking notice. A total of 27 undrafted players played in the NBA playoffs last season. Many teams underestimate these players, failing to take into account their dedication and willingness to outwork others. However, Miami Heat has realized the potential of these players and is giving them a platform to showcase their skills.
In conclusion, Miami Heat’s playoff success with undrafted players is nothing short of a miracle, but it proves a valuable lesson. Never underestimate someone’s willingness to work hard and get better. This creates a culture of excellence that other teams are now replicating. The Heat’s Secret Weapon? Players Who Were Snubbed on Draft Night will continue to play a pivotal role in the remainder of the playoffs.