Miami Heat Won't Make the Playoffs, Say the Haters

Dwayne Wade is coming off a stellar Olympic campaign, Michael Beasley has been drafted, and Shawn Marion is in a contract year. Yet people are still doubting the ability of the Miami Heat.

The so-called "experts" are saying that without a legitimate center, Miami will be unable to win 41+ games in the East. Let's take a trip back in time...

In the 2003-04 season the Miami Heat lost 4-2 in the East Conference Semifinals to the Indiana Pacers, who had the best record in the league at the time. This was with 6'9" Brian Grant, who averaged 8.7 ppg and 6.9 rpg, playing center.

Also, that team had rookies Udonis Haslem and Dwayne Wade, both coming into their prime. They have the ability and will to lead the current team into the postseason.

I predict that Joel Anthony will eventually usurp Mark Blount due to his shot-blocking ability and rebounding prowess. If Alonzo Mourning manages to return, this will provide the team with a veteran warrior and an excellent locker room presence.

Mark my words, despite what the experts say, the Miami Heat will win at least 45 games and make it into at least the second round of the playoffs. As long as Dwayne Wade remains healthy, this isn't a possibility, it's a certainty.

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