The Heat had a 25 percent change of getting the top pick in the June 26 but had to settle for No. 2, which it got in the Draft Lottery.
Miami officials haven't tipped their hand on what they're thinking. But draft experts agree the Heat would definitely take either Kansas State forward Michael Beasley or Memphis point guard Derrick Rose -- whoever is available. Beasley and Rose both were freshmen this season. Beasley averaged 26.5 points a game and led the nation with 12.5 rebounds a game, and Rose nearly took Memphis to the NCAA title.
The Heat was ensured of at least the No. 4 pick by virtue of having the worst record in the league.
SEASON HIGHLIGHT: Not many. Perhaps securing the worst record in the league. Seriously. It assures a top-four pick and helps move along the rebuilding process.
TURNING POINT: The November practice run-in between coach Pat Riley and former center Shaquille O'Neal. Alonzo Mourning had to intervene before it got physical. It was at that point the relationship between Riley and O'Neal hit the breaking point. That led to the February trade that brought Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks and signaled the Heat was giving up on the season.
