Addition Of Damian Lillard To Miami Heat Could Help Bam Adebayo’s DPOY Case

Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo could see beneficial offensive regression if Portland Trail Blazers superstar Damian Lillard is acquired this summer

A pivotal piece of the Miami Heat’s success stems from the defensive prowess of center Bam Adebayo.

This offseason, the Miami Heat are strong favorites to acquire seven-time, All-Star guard Damian Lillard from the Portland Trail Blazers. This trade would allow Adebayo to pour more focus into his defensive role because Lillard would greatly lighten his scoring load.

Last season, Adebayo averaged a career-high in points (20.4) and shot attempts (14.9). Lillard ranked fifth in points per game and third in field goals attempted at 20.7.

Adebayo is seen as one of the league’s premier defenders, but the pressure to contribute on both sides of the ball has greatly hurt his chances of winning Defensive Player of the Year. He has averaged more than a steal and nearly a block per game for the last four seasons.

If Miami succeeds in acquiring Lillard, Adebayo could receive credit for his consistent and dominant play on the defensive end. A lessened offensive load may be exactly what he needs in order to finally win the award that has eluded him. 

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Anthony Pasciolla is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He can be reached at ampasciolla@gmail.com or follow him on Instagram @anthonypasci