Q: Before we anoint Kel’el Ware based on his summer-league performance, we need to realize that his scoring and rebounding statistics were inferior to the numbers posted by Orlando Robinson in the summer of 2023. – Ed, Fort Lauderdale.
A: Which is why the eye test matters. What Kel’el Ware did in summer league is similar to the way the Heat will utilize him during the regular season, basically as a lob threat and occasional 3-point threat on offense, and as a rim protector on defense. Orlando Robinson was utilized by the Heat in summer league as the type of featured weapon he never was going to be with the Heat.
Q: To me, the best fit for the Heat is a starting backcourt of Josh Richardson and Tyler Herro. I believe Herro’s ability to create offense doesn’t come as much at the expense of others’ touches as Terry Rozier’s. In the second unit, Terry can dribble as much as he likes, which he is very good at. In the first unit, Richardson will be a 3-and-D who can also handle the ball and won’t complain about touches. Works for both units. Would you agree? – Adam, Plantation.
A: To a degree, at least about your point of the questions of starting Tyler Herro and Terry Rozier together. But if the Heat move away from that backcourt combination, then I think it would be more likely that Duncan Robinson would be inserted into the starting lineup, for his shooting.
Q: Are the Heat doing right by Dru Smith by keeping him on a two-way contract as long as possible while he is injured? Basketball-wise you would just switch him out for a healthy Isaiah Stevens. So is there a financial reason for the Heat’s loyalty to Dru? They do like to take care of their own when they can. I’m sure other players take notice of that. – Dave, Placenta, Calif.
A: There is, because there can be guaranteed money to a player on a two-way contract that does not count against the salary cap. As with all things two-way, as Zyon Pullin quickly learned, all is not always as it appears with such contracts. In other words, stay tuned when it comes to the Heat’s two-way deals, possibly to opening night – or even beyond.
