Why The Miami Heat Do The Deal

Consider this a bet that Bam Adebayo would in fact thrive at the 4.

Particularly alongside Myles Turner. In fact, Turner may be the perfect big man to facilitate Adebayo’s positional change. That holds true on both the offensive and defensive sides of the floor.

On offense, Turner’s floor-spacing will offset Adebayo’s lack of the same. Since Adebayo doesn’t shoot, there’s no world where he’d be a viable option alongside a traditional big. Luckily, Turner’s 34.9% career shooting from distance is anything but traditional.

On defense, Adebayo has no weaknesses to offset. Still, he may be maximized alongside a drop coverage big. Adebayo is likely to thrive as a weakside helper and shot blocker, and as a switchable perimeter defender.

LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Updates On Miami Heat & Indiana Pacers

For the Heat, it’s worth the gamble. Adebayo has the necessary lateral quickness to play the 4. There are no reasons to think he won’t be able to handle it, and plenty of reasons to have hope that he’ll exceed expectations in his new role.