The Miami Heat walked away from Sunday's NBA Draft Lottery empty-handed once again, failing to move up from the No. 13 pick for the 12th time in franchise history. But while the lottery results may have left fans wanting more, the real work is just beginning for the Heat's front office.

Assistant General Manager Adam Simon watched from the private drawing room in Chicago as the Heat's hopes of landing a top-four pick evaporated in agonizing fashion. The team was eliminated on the first ball for the No. 1 pick, the second ball for No. 2, and endured a cruel twist at No. 3 when a re-draw still didn't go their way. By the time the No. 4 pick was decided, the Heat were out on the first ball again.

It's a familiar sting for Miami, which has never moved up in the lottery across 38 seasons. But as any seasoned fan knows, the draft is about more than just luck—it's about finding the right fit.

And the Heat have proven they know how to do just that.

Last year, they landed Illinois guard Kasparas Jakucionis at No. 20, and he delivered a promising rookie campaign with 52 appearances and 12 starts. That kind of scouting success is exactly why this week's NBA Draft Combine in Chicago matters so much.

With the league requiring top prospects to attend for physicals, measurements, testing, and interviews, the Heat have a prime opportunity to dig deep into the talent pool. The question is whether they'll keep the pick or look to trade it, but if history is any guide, Miami will make the most of its position.

Here are five standout prospects who could be available at No. 13 and might just catch the Heat's eye:

First, there's the versatile forward who can stretch the floor and defend multiple positions—a perfect fit for Miami's switch-heavy scheme. Then there's the crafty guard with elite playmaking instincts, someone who could thrive in Erik Spoelstra's system. A high-motor big man with rim-protecting ability also makes sense, especially given the Heat's need for interior presence. Don't overlook the sharpshooting wing who can knock down threes off movement, a skill that's always in demand. And finally, there's the international prospect with raw talent and high upside—the kind of project the Heat have turned into stars before.

While the lottery didn't deliver a top pick, the Heat's track record suggests they'll find value at No. 13. The combine is where championships are built in the margins, and Miami knows that better than anyone.