The Miami Heat have a strong mix of veterans and young stars. The team has been consistent with their draft picks over the past few seasons. Players such as Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Nikola Jovic have proven their worth in the rotation with the latter already inking a rookie contract extension. Now, the Heat have the opportunity to add another young player with potential using their upcoming first-round draft pick.
Bleacher Report released their updated two-round mock draft following the trade deadline. In their projection, Miami holds the No. 16 selection, just outside the lottery and select Houston Cougars forward Chris Cenac Jr. The 18-year-old's pro comparison is Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis, who has been a dependable player throughout his decade-long career.
"January has been a strong month for Chris Cenac," the article wrote. "His production is going to fluctuate throughout the season based on Houston's depth and the freshman's role. But his tools and skill set will continue to stand out, with Cenac showing clear three-point range, rebounding instincts and athleticism for finishing at the rim. Assuming he continues to build on his shooting over the next few years, his archetype seems very translatable to a supporting role, being a 6'11" big who can stretch the floor and provide easy buckets and interior activity."
Cenac is helping lead the Cougars to a strong season thus far. Houston sits inside the AP Top 25 rankings at No. 8 with a 20-2 record. The forward is averaging 9.5 points, 7.8 rebounds and 0.9 assists while shooting 50 percent from the field and 36.5 percent from three-point range. Cenac was viewed as a five-star recruit in the class of 2025 ESPN recruitment rankings. He was the No. 6 ranked prospect in the nation.
Cenac was originally scouted as a center and if Miami decides to move Kel'El Ware in a package this offseason, a spot will open up for a hybrid center. Cenac could fit that role perfectly opposite Bam Adebayo. Given his reputation as a highly-viewed prospect, he could improve his draft stock but snagging him at No. 16 seems like a great potential move for the Heat.
Join the Community
Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news!
It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our Roundtable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!