Who Is The Most Talented Small Forward In Miami Heat History If They Were All In Their Prime?

The Miami Heat have seen an abundance of All-Star small forwards join their organizations, but it is impossible to top perhaps the most talented player of all-time, LeBron James.

However, that should not take away from the value that superstars Jimmy Butler and Glen Rice have contributed in their careers.

Despite James only spending four seasons in Miami, his impact couldn’t have been greater. The Heat made four consecutive Finals, defeating the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs in 2012 and 2013. Many argue James was at his peak during his time in Miami, averaging 26.9 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 6.7 assists.

Butler is the newest addition to this list, signing with the Heat in the offseason of 2019. Since his arrival, he has led them to two Finals appearances in four years. The consensus is that Butler’s prime has been with the Heat, where he has averaged 21.5 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 5.9 assists.

Rice began his career in Miami, but many consider his peak to be with the Charlotte Hornets. He was an All-Star all three years in Charlotte, averaging 26.8 points in his best season. Rice was a two-time All-NBA player and a one-time champion.

The Heat have had many great talents at the small forward position, including Shane Battier, Caron Butler, and Luol Deng. But none have the resume nor prime to compare to the consensus greatest small forward of all-time, LeBron James.

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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