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Amidst the high-flying dunks, clutch threes, and ankle-breaking crossovers, there's a group of players who often fly under the radar but are instrumental to their team's success. Let's shine a light on some of the league's unsung heroes and roles:

1. The Glue Guys: These players might not light up the stat sheet every night, but their presence, energy, and intangibles keep the team cohesive. Think of players like Andre Iguodala during his Warriors days or Udonis Haslem for the Heat.
2. Elite Screen Setters: A perfectly timed and positioned screen is often the difference between a clear shot and a contested one. Players like Steven Adams and Draymond Green have mastered this art.
3. Off-ball Movers: Constant motion creates chaos for defenses. Think Klay Thompson or JJ Redick, who run marathons every game through screens and sharp cuts, opening up space for themselves and others.
4. Defensive Stalwarts: They might not always have the flashy blocks, but their positioning, reads, and hustle often lead to disrupted plays. Marcus Smart and Matisse Thybulle come to mind.
5. The Bench Energizers: Not every player can be a star, but those who bring the energy off the bench, keeping the team's spirit high, are invaluable. Think of players like Patty Mills or Montrezl Harrell.

Let's give some love to these pivotal players and roles that might not always make the highlight reel but are foundational to the essence of basketball.

Who are some of your favorite unsung heroes in today's NBA? What other underappreciated roles deserve more attention?

Over the decades, the NBA has showcased a dynamic evolution of basketball styles, trends, and innovations. Let's take a trip down memory lane and ponder the future:

1. The 60s & 70s: Russell and Wilt battling in the post. Kareem brought us the skyhook, arguably the most unguardable shot in history. The game was dominated by big men and a lot of post play.
2. The 80s: Magic's Showtime Lakers and Bird's Celtics epitomized team basketball. The fast break was king and mid-range jumpers were more common. The first three-point contest took place in 1986, but it was not yet a primary weapon.
3. The 90s: Enter the era of the shooting guards and small forwards. MJ, Kobe, and AI showcased a blend of athleticism, mid-range mastery, and killer instinct. The Dream Shake, MJ's fadeaway... footwork became an art.
4. 2000s: The game becomes more international. Nowitzki's one-legged fade, the Spurs' team ball, and the rise of the Euro step. The game started to stretch as three-point shooting began its rise.
5. 2010s: The Splash Brothers change the game. The deep three becomes a viable shot. Positionless basketball is born. Big men like Jokic and Embiid can now handle the ball and shoot from distance, while guards like Westbrook and Simmons can grab 10 boards a night.
6. 2020s: ???

So here's the main question: What's next in the evolution of the NBA?

• Will we see a resurgence of dominant post play?
• Will the mid-range game make a big comeback?
• New defensive schemes to counter the three-point barrage?
• Or perhaps, the rise of a new type of player or playing style we haven't imagined yet?

Accomplishments & Legacy:

• Dwyane Wade: 3-time NBA champion (2006, 2012, 2013), NBA Finals MVP (2006), 13-time NBA All-Star, 2-time All-NBA First Team, 3-time NBA All-Defensive Second Team.
• Chris Bosh: 2-time NBA champion (2012, 2013), 11-time NBA All-Star.

Playing Style & Role:

• Wade: Known for his slashing ability, craftiness around the rim, and clutch performances. Wade was a primary ball handler and scorer for the Heat, especially before LeBron James' arrival. He had a knack for making big plays in crucial moments.
• Bosh: A versatile big man who could stretch the floor and shoot from mid-range and three-point territory. Bosh was the third scoring option during the "Big Three" era but played a pivotal role, especially on the defensive end and as a floor spacer.

Impact on the Team:

• Wade: Often considered the face of the Miami Heat franchise. He played his entire prime with the Heat and is the franchise's all-time leading scorer. His leadership and passion for the game were evident throughout his career.
• Bosh: His willingness to adapt his game and sacrifice personal statistics for the betterment of the team was crucial for the Heat's championships in 2012 and 2013. His crucial offensive rebound in Game 6 of the 2013 NBA Finals, leading to Ray Allen's game-tying three-pointer, is an iconic moment in NBA history.

Career Trajectory:

• Wade: Drafted in 2003, Wade quickly emerged as a superstar and led the Heat to a championship in 2006. He remained an elite player throughout his career.
• Bosh: Bosh was the face of the Toronto Raptors before joining the Heat. While he was a primary scoring option in Toronto, he adjusted his game in Miami. Unfortunately, Bosh's career was cut short due to blood clot issues.

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In your opinion, was Wade or Bosh a bigger part of Miami's big 3?