Q: It’s time for Heat Nation, administration and followers to look ahead to hopefully higher seasons sooner or later. The high 5 playoff spots within the East are already out of attain, at present held by groups clearly superior to the Heat. The 14 video games following the Lakers function 9 towards high groups, on the finish of which the Heat will probably be nearer to being out of the playoff image than a assured spot. – Morgan, New Orleans.
A: Or will they? The upcoming stretch, together with the five-game journey towards the Nuggets, Jazz, Clippers, Lakers and Suns might be the proper litmus take a look at. And, sure, if 0-5 then maybe you might be onto one thing. But simply when it seems there will probably be sinking to the depths (or an increase to one thing considerably higher), there was a leveling off and reset. So the query stays whether or not the Heat nonetheless have a run in them, in addition to how lengthy administration is prepared to attend. If even with an opportunity, I might count on the analysis interval to a minimum of final till the Feb. 9 NBA buying and selling deadline.
Q: Ira, Udonis is a Heat icon whose function on the roster is clearly understood, however isn’t beginning center-regardless of accidents or relaxation choices – as he sadly proved in his fortunately modest 11 minutes with extra technicals than factors towards the Rockets. – Bill, Palm Beach Gardens
A: And but the Heat have stood by their dedication that Udonis Haslem has a spot on the roster so long as he desires. Even Monday evening, with Bam Adebayo and Dewayne Dedmon out, the Heat went with Haywood Highsmith at heart after Nikola Jovic and Orlando Robinson received into foul hassle. At this level, you settle for it and transfer on, as a result of the dedication isn’t altering.
Q: Ira, at this level, if the Lakers are prepared to take Duncan Robinson and Kyle Lowry for Russell Westbrook, go for it. Watching this crew is like watching paint dry. Zero pleasure. At least Russ would convey athleticism. – Juan, Miami Beach.
A: If there have been to be such a commerce (with no such indication there would), it will be to get off Duncan Robinson’s contract. And if there stays any enterprise sense for the Lakers, it will make little sense to eradicate subsequent summer time’s cap house by taking up Duncan’s contract. The Lakers can do higher, if they need. Or they may wait and settle for this season for what it has turn into.
()
Source: www.bostonherald.com