The Miami Heat have been one of the NBA’s biggest success stories expansion teams. Over the past three and a half decades, fans have flocked to see superstars, including the current all-time leading scorer in NBA history, LeBron James, who spent four seasons in South Florida.
1. (TIE) Dwyane Wade and Lebron James.
Wade is the franchise leader in points (21,556), assists (5,009), and steals (1,433). He also ranks second in blocks (812) and fourth in rebounds (4,482). Throughout his Miami career, Wade averaged 22.7 points, 4.7 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game. In James’ four seasons with Miami, he averaged 26.9 points, 7.6 rebounds, 6.7 assists, and 1.7 steals per game, and led the team to two NBA championships. James ranks fourth in franchise points (7,919) and made substantial contributions across all statistical categories.
2. Alonzo Mourning:
Alonzo “Zo” Mourning was originally the Charlotte Hornets’ lottery draft pick in 1992, right behind Shaq. Prior to his arrival in South Florida, Zo had already made an immediate impact in the league. n November 3, 1995, after Mourning rejected Charlotte’s contract extension offer worth an average of $11.2 million for seven years and knowing they would not be able to re-sign him, the Hornets traded him, along with reserves Pete Myers and LeRon Ellis to the Miami Heat in exchange for Glen Rice, Matt Geiger, Khalid ReevesHad he started any other season than the same year as Shaq, he most likely would have been named the Rookie of the Year. Mourning leads the Heat in career blocks (1,625) and is second in points (9,459) and rebounds (4,807). He also contributed significantly in steals and assists during his tenure.
3. Glen Rice
Miami’s first star, Glenn Rice, was a key player for the Heat before he became an NBA journeyman. Rice holds the third-highest total for points scored among all players in the franchise’s history, with 9,248 points. Rice was not only one of the most reliable long-range shooters in the league, he also significantly contributed with rebounds (2,363) and steals (572).
4 . Chris Bosh
Known as the third piece of the Heat’s “Big 3”, Chris Bosh wasn’t as flashy as Wade or James, but his steady offensive production proved to be a crucial factor in the outcome of many close games during his tenure. Bosh averaged 18.0 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.8 assists, 0.9 blocks, and 0.9 steals per game over six seasons with the Heat.
5. Jimmy Butler
Butler has been with the Heat for four seasons, earning two All-Star selections and leading the team to two NBA Finals appearances. He has been a significant contributor in points, assists, steals, and other categories.
6. Tim Hardaway
Hardaway ranks second in assists (2,867) and is among the top 10 in points (6,335) and steals (541) for the franchise. He was instrumental in leading the team’s offense during his tenure.
7. Udonis Haslem
Haslem leads the franchise in rebounds (5,791) and has been a consistent presence in points (6,586) and other statistical categories. His longevity and leadership have been invaluable to the team.
8. Rony Seikaly
Seikaly, a member of the original team, was a workhorse in the low post during the early 90’s. He ranks third in franchise rebounds (4,544) and made notable contributions in points (6,742) and blocks (610). Despite the fact that he played for multiple teams after his stint in Miami, including arch-rival Orlando, Seikaly was undeniably a foundational player in the early years of the franchise.
9. Eddie Jones
Eddie Jones played for the Miami Heat from 2000 to 2005 and again briefly in the 2007-08 season. A versatile shooting guard and small forward, Jones was known for his scoring, three-point shooting, and strong defensive presence. During his tenure, he averaged 16.0 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.4 steals per game. Jones led the team in scoring multiple seasons and was a key contributor during their playoff runs, particularly in 2004, when the Heat reached the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
10. Jamal Mashburn
Jamal Mashburn played for the Miami Heat from 1997 to 2000 after being traded from the Dallas Mavericks. As a forward, Mashburn brought scoring versatility and playmaking ability to the Heat. He averaged 15.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game during his time in Miami. Mashburn was a key part of the Heat’s success in the late 1990s, including a trip to the Eastern Conference Finals in 1997.
Honorable Mentions:
Bam Adebayo, PJ Brown, Anthony Mason, Matt Geiger, Voshown Leonard, Dan Majerle.
