The Heat recently had their media day ahead of the 2023-24 NBA season. It was quite memorable, with Jimmy Butler’s hair, Tyler Herro responding to being in trade rumors again, and more. Let’s dive into the details.
Heat Off-Season Companion Part 18: Jimmy Butler Had Emo Hair and Stated the Heat Would Win the Title
It is almost a certainty at this point that Jimmy Butler will show up to the Heat’s media day with a new hairstyle. This time, he had emo hair and said that his hairstyle reflected his emotional state. As is typical with Butler, this seems likely to just be a joke. Butler changed his hairstyle again only a few days later.
Jimmy Butler’s hair is what attracted most of the headlines, but he did also say some interesting things. Butler stated that the Heat would win the championship this season. The Heat have improved in the 2023 off-season, but we will see if Butler’s prediction comes true or not.
Kyle Lowry Did Not Speak to Reporters
One surprising development from the Heat’s media day is that Kyle Lowry did not speak to reporters. This is definitely unusual. There is no official reason for this.
Hopefully, Lowry is focused and ready to contribute to the Heat this season. It is likely that the Heat will trade him at or before this season’s trade deadline, though.
Erik Spoelstra Likes the Current Heat Team And Considers It a Contender
Given the Heat’s upgrades in the 2023 off-season, it is no surprise that Erik Spoelstra said that he likes the current Heat team. It is better and deeper than it was last season. Spoelstra also stated that the Heat are championship contenders this season.
It is likely that the Heat will finish with a better regular season record than they did last season. As for title contention, we will have to wait and see. The Heat might need some more help to achieve that status.
Heat Off-Season Companion Part 18: Tyler Herro Seems Motivated By Being in Trade Rumors Again
Tyler Herro appears motivated by being in trade rumors again. Herro said he knows his trade value and is not worried about the Portland Trailblazers, since the Blazers will not be contenders this season. It is good to see Herro take this approach to being in trade rumors.
It is exciting to imagine how Herro will develop as a player this season. Additionally, Herro could definitely make an All-Star Team this season.
The Heat Signed RJ Hampton to a Two-Way Contract
The Heat’s track record with players on two-way contracts in recent years is excellent. The Heat recently signed RJ Hampton to a two-way contract. Also, the Magic drafted RJ Hampton in 2020. Hampton is a 6’4″ guard with averages of 6.6 points, 1.9 rebounds, and 1.1 assists for his career.
Hopefully, Hampton can become a major contributor for the Heat in the 2023-24 season.
The Heat’s Preseason Starts Soon
The Heat are ramping up for the start of the 2023-24 NBA season. The Heat begin their preseason on October 10th by playing the Hornets. This is our first chance to see the new-look Heat play. It is a good bet that the Heat will win that preseason game.
Check back next week for more Miami Heat content.