The Miami Heat enter the 2026 offseason with clear roster questions, particularly in the backcourt. Norman Powell is heading into unrestricted free agency, and Tyler Herro is extension-eligible. Given their overlapping defensive limitations, Miami cannot realistically pay both guards their full market value. Tough decisions loom.
Bleacher Report’s latest mock draft has the Heat addressing the need for scoring with size and athleticism by selecting Cameron Carr out of Baylor with the 16th overall pick.
“The Heat are a near-lock to be in the guard market this summer,” Zach Buckley wrote. “Norman Powell will be a free agent, Tyler Herro will again be extension-eligible, and Miami can’t possibly commit to both when they’re overlapping weaknesses effectively render them unplayable together (minus-4.1 net rating over 234 shared minutes).”
Buckley continued: “Carr should be an easy sell for any backcourt shopper. He’s a 6’5″ sharpshooter with above-the-rim athleticism and inside-the-arc scoring. If this developmental program improves his defense and creation, Miami could have a steal.”
Carr’s College Production and Fit
Carr has appeared in 32 games for Baylor this season, averaging 19.2 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 2.7 assists while shooting an efficient 61.1% from two-point range and 39.4% from three. He brings a versatile scoring package: elite shooting, straight-line slashing with long strides, a reliable pull-up game from midrange, and the ability to finish above the rim.
Erik Spoelstra’s offense could benefit greatly from that kind of bounce and off-the-dribble creation. Carr’s length and athleticism would also help on the defensive end once his instincts and effort improve at the NBA level.
Earlier in the season, Carr had a “nuclear hot start,” as noted by The Athletic’s Sam Vecenie in a March 2 mock draft where he projected Carr to the Knicks at No. 25. Vecenie highlighted Carr as one of the best high-major scorers in the country at the time, averaging 19 points on strong efficiency.
Why Not Another Big?
The Heat already have work to do in the frontcourt as well. Buckley suggested adding a reliable backup big like Nick Richards in free agency to support Kel’el Ware. However, the backcourt remains the more pressing area of need given the Powell/Herro situation and the desire for more creation and spacing.
Drafting another center would create overlap with existing pieces like Neemias Queta, Luka Garza, and Amari Williams. A guard/wing like Carr provides a better balance and addresses a clear weakness in perimeter creation and athleticism.
The Bigger Offseason Picture
Miami is in a retooling phase after failing to make a deep playoff run. Nailing the draft and finding cost-effective contributors will be critical if the Heat want to return to championship contention quickly. Carr represents a high-upside, developmental piece who can grow into a meaningful rotation player under Spoelstra’s system.
If Powell departs and Herro’s extension is handled conservatively, adding a young, versatile guard becomes even more important. Carr’s shooting, slashing, and potential defensive growth make him a logical target at No. 16.
Final Thoughts
The Heat have a clear need for backcourt help that combines scoring, size, and athleticism. Cameron Carr fits that profile well and could develop into a steal if his defense and playmaking continue to improve.
While the frontcourt also needs attention (a backup big like Richards makes sense), prioritizing perimeter creation in the draft feels like the smarter long-term move for Spoelstra’s evolving offense.
Heat fans, how do you feel about drafting Cameron Carr at No. 16? Would you rather the team target a different position, or does Carr’s combination of shooting and athleticism excite you as a potential long-term piece?
The 2026 draft won’t define Miami’s future on its own, but a smart pick like Carr could give the Heat another building block as they try to climb back into serious contention.