2026 NBA Draft: 5 bigs Heat fans should keep tabs on
Briefly

2026 NBA Draft: 5 bigs Heat fans should keep tabs on
"Skinny: Coming off a torn ACL, Quaintance played just four games before being shut down. Anyone who was looking to see how he'd bounce back never really got a real good look. As a freshman at Arizona State in 2024-25, Quaintance, who was just 17-years-old at the time, flashed tantalizing potential defensively. He devours opposing players with his length, timing and athleticism. He's incredibly raw, but I think he's going to be a phenomenal defender, at worst, at the next level."
"Cenac, the No. 7 ranked recruit in the 2025 recruiting class, hasn't displayed that all under head coach Kelvin Sampson. Cenac plays with energy and tenacity on both ends of the floor. The 6-foot-11, 240-pound big has improved as the season's aged, and his numbers - 9.6 points and 7.4 rebounds in 25.8 minutes - don't do him enough justice. He's strong, an excellent rebounder, a good play finisher and should be switchable at the next level."
The 2026 NCAA Tournament and NBA Draft approach with teams and fans increasing scouting and betting activity. The Miami Heat hold a projected mid-first round pick. Jayden Quaintance returns from a torn ACL after just four games, showing elite defensive potential through length, timing and athleticism despite rawness. Chris Cenac Jr. plays with consistent energy, improving production and offers strength, rebounding and finishing ability while needing refinement in processing and shooting. Hannes Steinbach leads the Big Ten in rebounding (11.3) and secures a high share of defensive and offensive rebounds, showcasing strong glass-cleaning ability.
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