The Miami Heat's Big Three era of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh was one of the most beloved eras for fans, but according to former Boston Celtics All-Star Paul Pierce, The team reportedly did not perform to its full potential.
Pierce has been known to criticize the Heat since his retirement, but they lost to the Heat twice in the postseason during James' four years in Miami. The Hall of Fame forward recently appeared on the podcast “All Facts No Brakes with Keyshawn Johnson” and reiterated his thoughts on the Big Three Heat.
“They were tough. You can't lie if you look at it. They had LeBron, who is definitely the GOAT, they had D. Wade, who is probably the third-best two-guard of all time, and Bosh is an eternal All-Star. “They're all star players in their prime. You know, we knew they were going to be a problem. So they won some championships and they have the longest winning streak. It was one of them,” Pierce said. “I think they should have won three or four.” [championships]. Forget Bron saying “4, 5, 6” and they were relatively healthy…where do you rank LeBron and Wade and where do you rank Bosh all-time? I think they may have underachieved based on that. I thought very highly of that team. ”
James and the Heat defeated the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs in 2012 and 2013, but fell short to the Dallas Mavericks and Spurs in their second matchup before the teams were disbanded. The reason behind their “underachievement” is not a matter of talent, but rather a lack of time spent together. If the Big Three stays in Miami for two more seasons, another championship will be up for grabs.
However, in 2016, James returned to the Cleveland Cavaliers, giving fans one of the most memorable titles in league history.
Anthony Paciola is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He can be reached at ampasciolla@gmail.com.
