Q: Ira, Erik Spoelstra didn’t say anything groundbreaking at media day. Do you think the Heat have a read on this roster? – Tomas.
A: I do. And the read is that there is no read at the moment, with plenty to be sorted out in training camp, during the preseason, and then again whenever Tyler Herro returns. Erik Spoelstra was his typical non-committal self at Monday’s media day at Kaseya Center when it came to lineups, rotations and roles, because it is difficult to commit to the unknown. Only now are Andrew Wiggins and Davion Mitchell in their first Heat camps. Only now is Norman Powell in a Heat uniform. Only now do Nikola Jovic and Pelle Larsson have an offseason of development at EuroBasket. Only now is Dru Smith healthy again. Yes, the roster is somewhat locked in due to the luxury tax, but the permutations are ample. Now, are they workable? That’s the next step to deciphering what is in place.
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Q: It seems to me that the Heat are in a position where they need both Kel’el Ware and Nikola Jovic to develop into long-term quality players, with Jovic maybe more than that. I think Jovic should be the starting small forward of the future and should be in that position to start the season. I am a big believer in Jovic and really like what the Heat have done, except it looks like they are falling into the Jimmy trap again by not trading Wiggins in the offseason. – Ron, Columbus, Ohio.
A: I’m not sure I would compare Andrew Wiggins to Jimmy Butler. And it’s not as if the Heat did not make Andrew available this offseason (with his name certainly dropped into the Kevin Durant talks). As for Nikola Jovic starting at small forward, I’m not sure he will play any small forward, when you consider the Heat’s surfeit of depth on the wing. So here’s a compromise: forget about the position and play as the best possible Nikola Jovic as he can. If Nikola is productive, playing time will be the reward, ample playing time, regardless of position.
Q: What happens with the open two-way spot? – Andy.
A: That will be determined in training camp and during the preseason. But don’t get caught up in only one two-way spot currently being open. If others play well, the spots can be swapped out at any time. Conversely, if Myron Gardner or Vlad Goldin create doubts, there also is the option to look elsewhere for players who have two-way eligibility.
