Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra continues his dominance in the latest NBA GM Survey, naming the best coach of the league. It was three weeks ago when he was ranked first by CBS Sports.
CBS Sports’ Top 30 coaches in the NBA:
1.Erik Spoelstra, Heat
2.Nick Nurse, 76ers
3.Rick Carlisle, Pacers
4.Steve Kerr, Warriors
5.Ty Lue, Clippers
6.Mark Daigneault, Thunder
7.Will Hardy, Jazz
8.Ime Udoka, Rockets
9.Mike Budenholzer, Suns
10.Tom Thibodeau, Knicks
11.Joe… pic.twitter.com/zk4LTCtnsN— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) September 16, 2024
Despite finishing eighth in the East Conference and falling short in the first-round playoff last season, Spoelstra still received recognition for his coaching ability. He also earned the top spot in several key categories, reinforcing his position as one of the NBA’s prominent coaches.
Erik Spoelstra Named League’s Best Coach in NBA GM Survey
Eril Spoelstra Tops in Other Categories of the GM Survey
Spoelstra was once again voted the best head coach in the NBA, garnering 69% of the votes. However, this marked a slight decrease from the 73% he received last season. Oklahoma City Thunder’s Mark Daigneault came in second with 17% of the votes, while Golden State Warriors’ Steve Kerr placed third with 7%. Phoenix Suns’ Mike Budenholzer and Minnesota Timberwolves’ Chris Finch also received votes in this category.
Beyond being recognized as the best coach overall, Spoelstra also claimed first place in the “Best Manager/Motivator of People” category. He earned 37% of the votes, outpacing Kerr (17%), Boston Celtics’ Joe Mazzulla (10%) and several other notable coaches. That includes the San Antonio Spurs’ Gregg Popovich and the Milwaukee Bucks’ Doc Rivers.
Spoelstra’s defensive acumen was acknowledged as well. He ranked first in the category of “Best Defensive Schemes,” receiving 23% of the votes. Last season, Miami Heat was the fifth-best team in defensive rating, with a 112.2 rating. He beat out stiff competition from Finch and New York Knicks’ Tom Thibodeau, who tied for second with 20%. Meanwhile, Mazzulla and Daigneault rounded out the top five in this category.
The Last Word
As a top-tier strategist, Spoelstra’s coaching mind was further emphasized by his second-place position in the “Best In-Game Adjustments” category. He was narrowly beaten by Tyronn Lue of the Los Angeles Clippers in that category. However, Spoelstra was notably absent from the top three in the “Best Offensive Coach” category. That releases an urgent signal that the Heat have to strive to overcome their weakness this upcoming season.
Erik Spoelstra expressed adamant confidence in the Heat’s competitiveness despite other Eastern Conference teams revamping by making significant moves during the offseason. When asked about the team’s response to tougher competition, Spoelstra dismissed concerns, stating, “You sound scared,” and emphasized that the Heat are not afraid of the challenge. He highlighted the team’s depth and talent, believing that they have the assets to compete. Spoelstra is optimistic that by following the team’s offseason agenda. Focusing on leadership and defense, the Heat can reach a higher level this season.
While the Miami Heat are not among the top favorites to win the Eastern Conference this season, Spoelstra’s continued recognition in multiple categories suggests he remains a key asset for the franchise. Being guided by one of the best coaches in the league, we can expect the Heat to punch above their weight and climb onto the next level this upcoming season.
