Fresh off a dominant FIBA performance, the Swedish sharpshooter’s elite off-ball movement and defensive grit could transform the Miami Heat's bench into a championship-caliber unit during his breakout campaign.
MIAMI, Fla. – The Miami Heat found another gem in Pelle Larsson, a second-round pick in the 2024 NBA Draft, and as Sixth Man of the Year consideration floats, should Most Improved Player be another consideration?
The 25-year-old is coming off a productive season: 11.4 points on 49.6 percent shooting, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.5 assists in 70 games (54 starts). Larssoon has exceeded expectations, but there appears to be more of a leap in store.
During the summer, the Swedish native participated in the FIBA World Cup 2027 European Qualifiers. In four games, he averaged 26 points on 42.9 percent shooting, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists in 31.7 minutes. He scored 31 points against Slovenia and Finland in back-to-back matches.
Although Larsson’s role will be different on the Heat, the impact should be similar. He’s projected to play at small forward, behind Andrew Wiggins. Larsson can play off the ball, defend multiple positions, and looks to score around the rim. While Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo draw the defense’s attention, he will have opportunities to cut to the basket with ease.
The Heat improved the roster’s depth from last season, especially with the additions of Klay Thompson, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Nick Richards in free agency.
Larsson’s off-the-ball play, scrappy defense, and three-point shooting will be under the bright lights consistently, as the team will play on national television 31 times this upcoming season. He will have more of the media’s attention to carve out a case for both Sixth Man of the Year and Most Improved Player.
The Heat have the star power to compete for a championship, but it takes impactful role players to get over the hump. While the “Big 3” gathered so much attention, there were Udonis Haslem, Mario Chalmers, Shane Battier, and Chris “Birdman” Anderson, among others.
Larsson’s projected season could result in the organization making a difficult business decision. As his rookie contract is set to expire ahead of next summer, Antetokounmpo is extension-eligible. Larsson would be a restricted free agent, with an opportunity to test the market and force the Heat’s hand.
The organization still has time before needing to address the matter, but having a plan will be helpful. As training camp approaches, the Heat are projected as one of the favorites to win the Eastern Conference. Antetokounmpo’s arrival only raised championship aspirations, which the Heat have been looking for.
Anthony Aguirre covers the Miami Hurricanes and Miami Heat for Roundtable Sports. Contact info for tips/info: [email protected] & 305-987-3290 | Follow on Instagram/X: @AnthonyA_Sports
