NBA Predictions 2011-12: Complete Stat Projections for All Miami Heat Starters

With many talks of the Heat bringing in new talent and potential starters, it turns out Miami will have the same starting lineup they had in Game 6 of the NBA Finals.

This starting lineup gives Miami a great rotation with many solid options coming off the bench, but it is also the best way to utilize all of the team's talent. Names like Shane Battier, Udonis Haslem and Norris Cole are likely to be big off the bench and will possibly provide important roles down the stretch.

The Heat have three all-star players to lead the dangerous charge, but they have two often-undervalued role players that provide help in key areas.

Miami does have the depth to switch things up if needed, but this is a team that is ready to win a championship this year.

Center: Joel Anthony

While the popular opinion seemed to be that Joel Anthony would be coming off the bench this season for the Miami Heat, it looks like he will in fact still remain a starter. Although the Heat did sign big-man Eddy Curry to a contract, there is no telling when he will be ready or how productive he can be on the court.

Anthony is a classic example of a player who will not contribute statistically, so stay away from him in your fantasy drafts, but he will provide the team with great heart and hustle.

For a center, Anthony is a rather weak rebounder and will not finish shot attempts inside, however, he does show great athleticism and could produce some blocks along the way.

Season Projections: 2.2 Points, 3.7 Rebounds, 1.2 Blocks, 0.2 Assists

Power Forward: Chris Bosh

Chris Bosh is often considered a third-wheel whenever it comes to the star power in Miami, but make no mistake about it, this guy is good. Considering he has put on some muscle over the long offseason, we could see a much more improved, physical showing.

It's hard to find many power forwards with more offensive talent than Bosh, as he can hurt you in various ways. He can use his above-average length to rise above you and hit jumpers, or he can use his quickness to get by slower defenders for a bucket.

Bosh shoots fairly well from everywhere on the court, but he's perhaps most dangerous 10-15 feet from the basket.

While the former Toronto Raptor shows signs of being "soft" defensively, he still remains an effective rebounder with the ability to add a block or steal a game.

Bosh didn't have his best career showing in 2010-11, but that was to be expected. Numbers are likely to drop when playing with multiple stars, but never underestimate just how important Bosh is to Miami's success.

Season Projections: 19.5 Points, 8.9 Rebounds, 2 Assists, 1.1 Blocks, 80% Free Throws

Small Forward: LeBron James

Even though LeBron James showed a lapse of skill in the NBA Finals last season, there is no question that he is still the best player in the game today. With his great combination of strength, size and speed, James has all of the tools to do big things this season.

After hearing much criticism about his inability to dominate the post, James took it to heart and worked with NBA legend Hakeem Olajuwon on sharpening his skills. This not only gives the Heat a much-needed post presence, but it also makes LeBron's arsenal that much better.

It's a known fact that James can barrel his way to the rim for a finish or draw a foul, but it's promising to see him improve his shooting range.

LeBron is an intense defender that can not only shut down some of the best players in the game, but he can force turnovers to create instant offense. He is also a threat for a triple-double any given night and could average near those numbers.

While people say it every year, expect to see James hungrier than ever after another year of disappointment and defeat, possibly winning his first-ever NBA championship. He's got the surrounding pieces and talent but must show the heart and confidence to reach greater heights.

Season Projections: 27.5 Points, 7.9 Rebounds, 7.1 Assists, 1.5 Steals, 0.9 Blocks, 52% FG

Shooting Guard: Dwyane Wade

Dwyane Wade has not only had the best career of any player to ever put on a Miami Heat jersey, but he's also the team's most popular star of all time. If the South Beach club wants to win a championship next season, Wade's leadership and experience must lead the way.

With the ball, Wade is one of the most exciting and unique players in the NBA to watch. Having such great quickness and leaping ability, he can score in many ways and always finds creative ways to wow a crowd.

Wade doesn't possess the most solid jumper in the world, but he can use pump fakes to draw fouls and get to the line. However, when he finds his touch, it's never smart to loosely defend him 15 feet away from the rim.

Although he didn't receive as much time with the ball last season, Wade is one of the most effective off-ball players currently in the league. He crashes boards with great results and could really become more effective running off picks to get open.

While seeing a dip in assists last year, don't expect that to spike back up this upcoming season. James still remains the most logical distributor, but Wade will find ways to still be effective.

Wade has always put up impressive numbers offensively, but defense is where he shines the most. He is a great shot-blocker and rebounder for being only 6'4" and has the quickness to stay with any player in the NBA.

Just like his teammate LeBron James, Wade creates turnovers and many fast-break opportunities for his supporting cast.

If he remains healthy throughout the season, it will not be surprising to see Wade play his best season to date, perhaps winning an MVP along the way.

Season Projections: 26.7 Points, 6.3 Rebounds, 5.1 Assists, 1.7 Steals, 1.2 Blocks, 50% FG

Point Guard: Mario Chalmers

If Miami receives a huge boost from a young Mario Chalmers, it could play the key difference in bringing home a title. He showed consistent improvement during the 2010-11 season, especially during the playoffs; he should compliment James, Wade and Bosh very well.

Chalmers will not be a traditional point guard, as he will not be much of a distributor, but he's a dangerous shooter who can hit from downtown. Miami has plenty of good spot-up shooters, but Chalmers should see an increase in playing time to start the season.

For a young player, he shows legitimate confidence when it comes to taking a big shot or difficult defensive task.

Chalmers has good, quick hands on either end of the floor but must take less risks in order to cut out the turnovers and be a better on-ball defender.

I'll stand by the fact that Chalmers was the best available option for Miami when it came to finding a point guard in the off-season. But don't look for his numbers to jump through the roof. He will be a nice role player, but will doubtfully ever develop into an all-star.

Season Projections: 6.9 Points, 2.9 Assists, 1.4 Steals, 2 Rebounds, 1.5 3PM, 40% FG