Former NBA player and current ESPN sports analyst Jalen Rose sees the Miami Heat contending for the playoffs in the upcoming 2019-20 season.

Rose says the addition of Jimmy Butler this summer was huge for a Miami team that finished just two games shy for a playoff spot last campaign. However, the former NBA Most Improved Player didn't go too bold on his prediction and said that the Heat are still a few pieces away from title contention.

“As long as Spoelstra’s on the sideline, and Jimmy Butler’s playing at an All-NBA level, I anticipate them to be a playoff team,” Rose told Chris Nelsen of The Palm Beach Post. “Maybe not a [title] contender yet, but it’s a large step when you’re turning over your roster. Adding Butler helps speed up the process.”

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Despite the departure of Kawhi Leonard from the Toronto Raptors, the Heat are still facing serious competition in the Eastern Conference. The Milwaukee Bucks, Philadelphia 76ers and Boston Celtics remain the favorites to come out on top, while teams like the Indiana Pacers, Brooklyn Nets and Orlando Magic could pose some challenge.

The New York Knicks, Atlanta Hawks and the Washington Wizards could also be surprise postseason contenders in the East.

Miami has the talent and the coaching staff to go against the other top teams, but only time will tell if they can live up to expectations.