Q: Ira, why are you writing about trades or free agents? Erik Spoelstra tells us “we like our depth” . . . so use it. Play Kel’el Ware, play Nikola Jovic, Keshad Johnson. – Sandy.
A: Because, as we have been and will be, we continue to deal with a team that is playing to win, while insisting components are being developed behind the scenes. A staple with Erik Spoelstra has been that playing time is earned. Nikola Jovic has not shown that he is earning it. Kel’el Ware has been given uneven minutes amid uneven play. The bottom line is there is no pretense with the Heat. They’re playing to win the game. And those who definitively can help win the games will be those who play.
Q: Ira, with regard to your Q&A about a true point guard, have you forgotten who the Heat drafted this year, Kasparas Jakucionis? Yes he is raw but we saw his upside during the preseason and his connection with Kel’el Ware. He was projected as a lottery pick before falling in the draft. Some consider him to be Miami’s true point guard of the future. – Rodney, Miami.
A: As he well could be. For now, based on the immediate ability to contribute, he stands behind Davion Mitchell and Dru Smith. But there is a very real world where he could move up to at least No. 2 at some point this season. But that likely won’t be until the second half of the season, if at all. When consistency is shown in the G League, opportunity could follow for the Heat.
Q: This four-day break feels longer. Hopefully the Heat worked out whatever they needed to work out, because Toronto is a hungry team looking for a win, as well. Should be a good game. – Douglas.
A: First, it was a five-day break, which simply does not happen outside of the All-Star break. But while not must-win, important-to-win is how Monday night stands, considering a three-game trip follows.