THE NBA Draft is just around the corner, in what shapes as one of the most anticipated selection nights in recent memory, thanks to a talented crop of up and comers set to have their dreams realised.

With that in mind, Rookie Me Central will be previewing each side ahead of draft night on June 22, unpacking all 30 teams’ needs and potential selections as they look towards the future.

The series continues with the Miami Heat, who are probably not thinking about the draft quite yet given they just advanced to the finals after remarkably defeating the Boston Celtics over seven games in the Eastern Conference Finals. Their season still has at least four games to go, so the focus is more so on the present for the Heat.

However, the draft is still in the near future, and Miami has a solid selection that could see it add some quality youth to a strong roster.

Miami Heat

Draft selections

18

Contracted players

Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, Kyle Lowry, Duncan Robinson, Victor Oladipo (player option), Caleb Martin, Tyler Herro, Nikola Jovic, Haywood Highsmith (team option), Jamal Cain (qualifying offer), Orlando Robinson (qualifying offer)

The Heat have just the single selection on draft night, having traded away their second-round pick and it now belonging to the Thunder. However, at pick 18, the Heat can acquire the services of a young gun with plenty of potential to be paired with the likes of Tyler Herro for the future.

One name that could be in the conversation and may sound familiar is Rayan Rupert, who is fresh off a strong NBL campaign with the New Zealand Breakers. He was excellent during his time as an NBL Next Star, showing defensive versatility and an ability to guard multiple positions. His prototype as a player is one that would be extremely attractive to the Heat’s front office, given his size and potential to offer spacing on the offensive end.

The Heat may want to add a bit more size to their team, which could come in the form of GG Jackson. The six-foot-nine power forward has shown plenty of upside during his time with South Carolina, and while the team that drafts him may need a bit of patience, Jackson could eventually reward a team with his ability to create his own shot and excellent footwork and balance. The forward is capable of adjusting his shot while in the air to avoid the defence and can easily rise over the top of the his defender to get a better look at the hoop.

Miami is in the fortunate position of finding success on the court while still holding its first round pick. With the opportunity to add depth to the roster, the Heat will be able to select a quality young player that will fill a gap in their list.