Once Miami Heat got Klay Thompson, was DeMar DeRozan out?

Q: With Klay Thompson potentially signing with the Miami Heat, what would be the ideal starting lineup? Assuming the lineup includes Davion Mitchell, Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Bam Adebayo, I think Klay could remain in the starting unit. While Klay is no longer the elite perimeter defender he once was, Miami would have four excellent defenders around him in Davion Mitchell, Andrew Wiggins, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Bam Adebayo, which should help minimize his defensive limitations. At the same time, Klay still provides tremendous floor spacing and remains an effective three-point shooter, as he demonstrated last season. If you would not start Klay, who would you put in the starting lineup instead?  – Parag, Weston.

A: I would start Klay Thompson, believe the Heat will start Klay, and believe that played into Klay’s interest in the Heat. In fact, among the reasons that DeMar DeRozan turned away from the Heat might have been the writing on the wall that Klay would take that final Heat starting spot. The greater issue with Klay is whether he will play as a closer. In that regard, figure on a bunch of offense-defense maneuvering, with Klay on the court late when the Heat are playing from behind, but perhaps Pelle Larsson the closer when a defender is needed at shooting guard.

Q: Praying for D’Angelo Russell or some kind of point-guard depth (Ben Simmons non- guaranteed?). Hypothetically if Davion Mitchell gets hurt, are we not severely exposed to no ball handling? – Dim.

A: Dru Smith and Tre Donaldson would like a word. But, seriously, there would be something to be said for having a veteran NBA point guard in reserve. The difference, though, between Klay Thompson’s buyout and one for D’Angelo Russell is there might not be a guaranteed landing spot with the Heat. A potential better option might be Gabe Vincent on a non-guaranteed deal, should he prove amenable.

Q:  Any chance Trevor Keels or Jahmir Young get that last standard contract? – Tru.

A: Doubtful. Working against Trevor Keels is that the Heat now appear set with their 3-point depth with the impending addition of Klay Thompson. And while he has the build of a point guard, Jahmir Young probably is not enough of a true playmaker/ballhandler to claim such a role. With an older roster, this is win-now time for the Heat, so a polished option likely would be the preference.