The Miami Heat have been one of the more interesting stories in the league thus far this season. They currently sit with a 10-6 record, fourth in the Eastern Conference, which wasn't expected from a national media and fan perspective.

The team wasn't regarded as a championship contender, despite acquiring Norman Powell in a blockbuster trade, who was coming off an All-Star caliber season, as well as Simone Fontecchio, drafting Kasparas Jakucionas, re-signing Davion Mitchell and Dru Smith, and extending Nikola Jovic.

The narrative was that the Heat were without a true superstar, especially after the departure of Jimmy Butler, and then missing out on Kevin Durant in the offseason. Afterwards, they didn't have true expectations heading into the season.

Now, nearly 20 games in, the team ranks first in points per game, 124.9, first in assists per game, 30.6, 11th in field goal percentage, 48.2, fifth in three-point percentage, 38.1, 10th in three-pointers made, 234, seventh in net rating, fourth in defensive rating, third in fast break points per game, 18.7, second in points per game, 57.1, fifth in drive points per game, 31.3, first in points from assists per game, 81.2, first in pace, 106.4, and first in miles per game, 17.9.

The Heat have already surpassed expectations, but there's still plenty of season left to go. After last night's victory over the Philadelphia 76ers, with a final score of 127-117, Erik Spoelstra alluded to their great start:

"I don't think anybody, two months ago, thought we'd be sitting third in the East," he said. "It's not everything, but it's something."

It's looking to get better for the Heat as Tyler Herro is reportedly set to make his season debut tonight against the Dallas Mavericks, barring any setbacks. The All-Star underwent left ankle surgery late in the offseason, which kept him sidelined. He's coming off a career season, averaging 23.9 points, 5.2 rebounds, 5.5 assists while shooting 47.2 percent from the field, 37.5 percent from three-point range in 77 appearances. Spoelstra adding another offensive firepower talent to the mix will be a luxury.

The Heat are only 3.5 games behind the first seed in the Eastern Conference, which is currently held by the Detroit Pistons, who have a 14-2 record, and are on a 12-game winning streak. If their trajectory remains strong, the national media will have a difficult time keeping them out of championship conversations.

More Miami Heat News:

- "BREAKING: Heat Ready For Tyler Herro Return"

- "Norman Powell Stays Hot, Kel'el Ware Continues Dominance In Heat's Victory Over 76ers"

- "Heat Face Uncertainty About Terry Rozier's Case"

- "Keshad Johnson Delivers Big In Heat's Blowout Victory Over Bulls"