Bam Adebayo's Olympics run put a lot of people on notice. Adebayo was getting recognition from Stephen Curry and LeBron James. Like they gave Adebayo a stamp of approval. Not that he needs it, but it's a big deal when guys like Curry and James complement you.
Adebayo's play shows he is an excellent fit with anyone who consistently scores. His defense was also on display. Seeing Adebayo roaming around on defense on the court is more fun than in Miami, where he is undersized most of the time as a full-time center. The way Adebayo played for Team USA made me think about which of his Olympic teammates would be a good fit next to him in Miami.
Anthony Edwards
Bam Adebayo and Anthony Edwards could form a great duo in the league. Both players have a similar mindset when they're on the court. Edwards would benefit from Adebayo's energy. The two developed a relationship during the Olympics. Adebayo's scoring ability, coupled with his ball-handling and decision-making skills, makes him great on offense, especially in the pick-and-roll.
If Adebayo had a guard who could pass him the ball, his performance in the pick-and-roll would be even better. On the other hand, Edwards excels in a two-man game, getting downhill, attacking the rim, or finding his spots for a mid-range jumper. Adebayo's ability to roll to the rim or make the right pass off the roll complements Edwards' playing style.
Moreover, Adebayo poses a significant lob threat and sets great screens to create driving opportunities for Edwards. Edwards fits well into "Heat Culture" and has a good relationship with coach Erik Spoelstra. At only 23 years old, he also aligns well with Adebayo's timeline.
Given the ownership issues facing Edwards's current team, the Minnesota Timberwolves, a potential move to Miami with Adebayo and Spoelstra could make sense if things go south for Edwards in Minnesota.
Anthony Davis
The NBA is lucky that Anthony Davis and Bam Adebayo are not on the same team.
Defensively, those two together can cause issues. Both can switch on the perimeter and defend anyone thrown at them. One of them roaming the perimeter and the other protecting the rim is a scary thing to think about. Both can play the four or five together, but those two positions don’t matter with how versatile both are.
Offensively, both can bring the ball up and make plays for others. Davis's jumper is hot and cold. Adebayo is expanding his game to three and has an excellent mid-range jumper that is also improving.
This fit would be great on both ends of the court. It's unlikely that Davis and Adebayo will be teammates in the NBA, but at least we have the Team USA experience. One day, maybe Kel'el Ware can replicate some of what Davis could provide to a frontcourt that included Adebayo.
Stephen Curry
Talk about Stephen Curry finding his Draymond Green replacement if he ever left Golden State. Bam and Steph would be a perfect fit.
Adebayo can help Curry run similar sets to what he runs in Golden State. Like Green, Adebayo can play-make and find open shooters. Curry can create so many looks for Adebayo. Curry is another guy who is excellent in pick and roll. Adebayo can roll to the rim or off the pass and look to find the open man.
Curry developed a strong relationship with Adebayo and Spoelstra during the Paris Games, but it's extremely unlikely that he ever leaves the Warriors. Still, you never know. Few thought Klay Thompson would leave the Bay Area and now he's playing in Dallas. If Steph were to ever leave, perhaps he'd give Miami a strong look.
