The worst place to find yourself in the NBA is in the middle of the pack.
If you’re one of the best teams in the NBA, that’s ideal – obviously, that’s everyone’s goal. On the other hand, being near the bottom of the standings has its own advantages.
Whether you like it or not, the league’s lottery system rewards losing.
The Miami Heat will not be reaping those rewards in 2022-23. After a trip to the Eastern Conference Finals, they won’t be expected to “tank” this season. The Heat are all-in on the present.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Kyle Kuzma, Washington Wizards & Miami Heat Updates
By contrast, it’s hard to be so sure about the Washington Wizards. Last year, they were the picture of mediocrity. In 2022-23, they’re off to a 2-1 start, but if they start losing, who knows whether they’ll lean in that direction?
If they choose to, here’s a deal that sends Kyle Kuzma to the Heat.