The Miami Heat’s season has come to an end.
They were outscored by 122 points in a four-game sweep to the Cleveland Cavaliers, which is the single-worst point differential in any series in NBA playoff history.
That wasn’t necessarily a surprise.
Losing Jimmy Butler killed all expectations and hope for a deep postseason run.
With that in mind, ESPN pundit Stephen A. Smith claimed that it was time for the Heat to move on from Pat Riley.
“He’s not that guy anymore,” Smith said.
Stephen A. Smith says it’s time for Pat Riley to step down
“He’s not that guy anymore.” ?
(? @FirstTake )
— NBACentral (@TheDunkCentral) April 29, 2025
While he claimed that Riley had a bright basketball mind and knew what he was doing from a business perspective, his ways might be outdated.
Riley has gotten into power struggles with all their stars, from Shaquille O’Neal to LeBron James, and even Dwyane Wade.
No one can take anything away from him, but his micromanaging might not cut it with today’s generation of empowered – and sometimes entitled – athletes.
To add insult to injury, Riley has swung and missed over and over in his attempts to get another star to South Beach.
He chose not to pursue Bradley Beal, which proved to be the right move, but he couldn’t get Kevin Durant or even Damian Lillard, who was reportedly eager to take his talents to South Beach.
Riley is one of the most influential figures in NBA history, and he deserves all the respect in the world, but all good things eventually come to an end.
NEXT: Erik Spoelstra Sends Clear Message Ahead Of Game 3 Against Cavs
