The Miami Heat traded their No. 13 overall pick — plus two other unprotected firsts and four players — for Giannis Antetokounmpo this week. But that will not preclude them from participating in Day 2 of the 2026 NBA Draft, where they own the No. 41 pick.
Of the names still available, who are a few they should consider if they drop? Let’s examine!
Emanuel Sharp, G, Houston:
Skinny: Of these three, Sharp’s name is least likely to drop past 40. But if he is, Miami should race to the podium. Sharp doesn’t have great size, nor does he have a crazy wingspan. But the 6-foot-3 guard was a culture bearer under one of the best head coaches in America, Kelvin Sampson.
Sharp is tough, fearless and selfless, averaging 11.8 points on a career 37.6 percent from 3-point range. He’s one of the best point-of-attack defenders in this draft and would instantly fit both culturally and as a 3-and-D contributor. At this range, he’d be a perfect NBA-ready contributor from Day 1.
Trevon Brazile, F, Arkansas:
Skinny: Brazile’s first four seasons at Missouri and Arkansas scarred me. The tape was bad. But he won me over alongside Darius Acuff and Billy Richmond this season. The super senior is a freakish athlete and began to put the puzzle pieces together, averaging 13.0 points, 7.3 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game last year.
There’s more shooting to unlock for him at the next level. And his impact defense continued to grow, productivity notwithstanding. All that combined with his freakish length (6’10.75″, 7’3.75″ wingspan, 9’1 standing reach) and athleticism (41.5″ vertical) make him a worthwhile dart throw.
Jaden Bradley, G, Arizona:
Skinny: The reigning Big 12 Player of the Year was one of the best glue guys in America. On a team that featured a pair of highly touted freshmen in Brayden Burries (#myguy) and Koa Peat, Bradley’s winning plays consistently stood out. He wasn’t a high-volume 3-point shooter. But he was efficient, a good rebounder, a vastly improved passer and was feisty at the point-of-attack. I’ll buy him continuing to be a contributing role player at the next level, no matter his stop.
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They are all good prospects. With Miami’s all in/win now posture, it does not have the time (2-3 years) to develop this pick.
The best NBA ready player available would be the logical choice. For example, a solid back-up for Mitchell who is a good point of attack defender and a decent playmaker (especially if he can shoot 3’s at an average clip) would be ideal.
That is Bradley, which is why he is high on my list. But agree we have to be looking at players they think can contribute at some point this season.
Bradley was the main guy on my list of who I think could be there. I don’t think Sharp or Brazile will be there, but would take them as well.
Saunders is another guy I could see the Heat liking, but it depends on his injury. Word is he will be ready.
Isaiah Evans is still on the board. I know he was a late first round prospect, but I’m kinda hoping he makes it to Miami. He’s probably not an amazing fit, given his inconsistent shooting, but has size and upside. Did shoot 41.6% from three as a freshmen in far fewer attempts than when he became a more focal point of the offense as a sophomore.
I think he is gone within the first 5 picks of the second round. The FO would jump on him just for the Duke connection. 🙂