With just under two months before the 2026 NBA Draft, which prospects do pundits have the Miami Heat selecting? (Mandatory Credit: Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
We are one day away from the Final Four tipping off! We are also less than three months from the 2026 NBA Draft. The Miami Heat own two picks in this year’s draft, so who do pundits have them drafting as the end of the NCAA Tournament nears?! Let’s examine!
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“Nate Ament had a mixed postseason, highlighted by shotmaking flashes, creativity, issues converting drives and struggles against physical defense.
“There will always be demand and patience when it comes to 6’10” wings with shoot-dribble-pass skill sets, and Ament has at least 19 made field goals in ball-screen, isolation, spot-up and movement off-screen situations. He’s getting to the line at a strong rate, yet he isn’t a black hole, averaging 2.3 assists.
“The case against Ament questions if the shooting will be good enough to offset projected issues around a lack of explosion and strength for turning the corner and finishing.
“The case for him shows a mismatch and three-level scorer who can get his shot off cleanly at will due to positional height and release point.”
Alex Karaban, G/F, UConn (No. 42)
“NBA teams will eye for the same role he plays now, making spot-up and movement threes, cutting through defenses and adding good decision-making and toughness to a lineup.”
Where Matt currently has Ament ranked on his way-too-early big board: 21
Where Matt has Karaban: 41
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“Lendeborg is one of the most NBA-ready prospects in the class, leading the Michigan Wolverines to the Final Four with wins over Alabama and Tennessee while showcasing a well-rounded impact on both ends. A playmaking 6-foot-9 forward who helped guide Michigan to one of the nation’s top records, he scores efficiently inside and defends with strong instincts. The Miami Heat—a team that values versatile, do-it-all forwards—land a strong fit in Lendeborg as they look to bounce back next season.”
Where Matt currently has him ranked on his way-too-early big board: 12
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“With NBA genes in his blood as the son of former player Chris Carr, Cameron has the skills to make it in the NBA. But at 175 pounds with not a ton of games under his belt, he’s going to get introduced to the NBA’s physicality in a way that might limit his ability to get to his spots as a scorer. Thankfully, the Heat have a strong strength and conditioning program to help a guy like Carr get in peak shape to handle the rigors of the league.”
Where Matt currently has him ranked on his way-too-early big board: 9
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“Philon’s sophomore jump has made him both a shot-creator and shot-maker. What’s missing is the defensive impact he showed as a freshman, but in Miami, that end of the floor will be a requisite. With plenty of decisions looming for the Heat on the perimeter, he and Kasparas Jakucionis could be two compatible long-term pieces.”
Where Matt currently has him ranked on his way-too-early big board: 14
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