The Miami Heat are not expected to contend in the 2016-17 National Basketball Association (NBA) season, and with only limited time remaining to make roster adjustments, they might just continue getting better in the 2017 off-season. 

A report suggested that the Heat could tank in the upcoming season, using it as an avenue for their young players to grow. Once their campaign ends, they can either draft for a promising talent or give up some assets to land a star that could help center Hassan Whiteside, who as of the moment can be considered the face of the franchise with Chris Bosh out. 

The truth is, Miami is no longer the championship-winning squad it was a few years back when it had LeBron James. If Bosh will not be granted the permission to play, they likely will not have the firepower to go toe-to-toe with the likes of the reigning champions, the Cleveland Cavaliers, Toronto Raptors, Indiana Pacers, Boston Celtics and even the New York Knicks. 

If the Heat throws away the upcoming season, they will be in the running for a top pick in the 2017 draft. They might also chase for some of the stars that are going to be available when the off-season begins. 

But it's likely that the Heat are still competing, although their chances of contending without Bosh or any star player are low. 

The Heat may consider potential deals during the trade period in the middle of the regular season, but swaps done in that period usually do not involve big names. 

Before the results of his physical came out this Friday, it was said that Miami's best hope was for Bosh to pass it in order to be cleared to play again. If this were the case, the Heat would no longer need to sacrifice one year just to have a competitive roster that can bring them back to their former glory. However, after failing the physical,  Bosh is still not cleared to participate in basketball activities.