Q: Ira, are we caught within the center? – Wes.
A: Possibly, contemplating every convention has 15 groups and the Heat’s upside, which, no less than in the intervening time appears to be like to be within the Nos. 6-9 vary. There isn’t any indication that record-wise the Heat are up for competitors in opposition to the Celtics or Bucks (sure, they continue to be able to defeating both when complete, however the Heat have proven no capability to maintain the kind of profitable essential to have a high convention seed). And, in the intervening time, it does seem as if the Cavaliers, 76ers and Nets are on a much more vital trajectory than the Heat. So that may imply battling the Knicks, Hawks and presumably others for the No. 6 seed, the ultimate seed that avoids the play-in. The four-game profitable streak in opposition to the Pacers, Thunder, Rockets and Spurs was all effectively and good, however all that principally confirmed is a capability to beat the underside of the West. If the Heat are to make a transfer within the East, it should be by doing it in opposition to the groups they’re chasing. There can be ample such alternative after the flip of the calendar and the completion of the upcoming five-game western swing, the Heat’s remaining journey west this season.
Q: No crew within the historical past of the NBA has ever gained a championship with over half its roster being undrafted gamers, which is what the Miami Heat have been making an attempt to do for the previous couple of seasons. We’ve seen glimpses of expertise from Duncan Robinson, Max Strus, Gabe Vincent and this yr Haywood Highsmith, however not sufficient on a constant foundation to get us to the subsequent degree. – Greg, Jacksonville.
A: This is a league outlined by main males. That means Jimmy Butler having to be extra accessible, and, frankly, Kyle Lowry having to be higher, as he was on Monday night time. In some ways, Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro have stored the Heat afloat to this stage. But until it turns into extra of a four-for-all, I agree in regards to the restricted upside, with all due respect to the likes of Caleb Martin, Max Strus, Haywood Highsmith and even Victor Oladipo. The Heat’s complementary gamers have largely complemented.
Q: Everybody goes to be excessive on Orlando Robinson now. And we needs to be. He jogs my memory of what Haywood Highsmith was doing on the finish of final yr, particularly being in the suitable place on the proper time. That is so vital for us underneath the basket. – Roland, Borrego Springs., Calif.
A: And Orlando Robinson is deserving of such credit score after Monday night time’s efficiency in opposition to the Timberwolves. But, as said above, there additionally must be perspective. Where Orlando makes it fascinating is that if the Heat want to make use of Dewayne Dedmon’s wage in a commerce, there now seems to be one other viable possibility in reserve behind Bam Adebayo.
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Source: www.bostonherald.com