NBA Draft rumors 2022: 5 targets for the Miami Heat

Mar 17, 2022; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers guard Kennedy Chandler (1) reacts as he dunks the ball against the Longwood Lancers in the first half during the first round of the 2022 NCAA Tournament at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Robert Goddin-USA TODAY Sports /

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Gonzaga Bulldogs guard Andrew Nembhard. (Troy Wayrynen-USA TODAY Sports) /

2. Andrew Nembhard

Nembhard has risen to the point where he’s got a serious chance of hearing his name called late in Round 1. It’s easy to see why the Heat could be one team that spends a lot of time contemplating making the former Gonzaga floor general their point guard of the future.

Miami needs a longer, stronger defender at the one who can help take pressure off Kyle Lowry. The veteran was a poor defender last year and there’s no guarantee he’s going to bounce back next season. Lowry is too good to sit but Miami needs a different option when he’s really struggling to stay in front of the opponent.

Nembhard doesn’t possess elite quickness but his long 6-foot-4 frame helps him overcome any deficiencies he suffers from in terms of lateral movement. He needs to add weight to take the pounding of life in the NBA but there’s no reason he shouldn’t be able to bulk up at the next level.

Nembhard may not have the high ceiling that Miami likes their prospects to have, but he can fill an important need for Spoelstra and his staff right away. If he’s the top-rated point guard on their board when they go on the clock it’s easy to see them selecting him.

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