Q: Totally disagree with the win-now mode. The window is Tyler Herro, Bam Adebayo and all the kids. The Heat’s player development has made plenty of undrafted players money. I want to see what they do with players with the measurables of drafted players. – Chris, Cape Coral.
A: So you’re suggesting a Heat step back? Is that even a thing? Look, I do not necessarily disagree. But I also appreciate more than championship or bust. To me, you can also enjoy a team as it evolves. The Heat instead operate where the move is trading for Terry Rozier at the cost of a first-round pick, as well. So, ultimately, Kel’el Ware and Pelle Larsson will have to fit in, instead of being built around. It is the Pat Riley way.
Q: Ira, the 76ers are operating like a team solely with a championship vision, not only trading for Paul George, but signing players like Caleb Martin, Eric Gordon, Andre Drummond, Kyle Lowry and Reggie Jackson. The Heat have only added Alec Burks. What gives? – Laurence.
A: What gives could be desperation, considering Joel Embiid has not gotten beyond the second round of the playoffs in his career and Philadelphia is at a point under Daryl Morey where they simply have to win something. The Heat, by contrast, have consistently bypassed the 76ers in the playoffs in recent years, with both going out in the first round last year. Now we’ll see whether desperation makes the difference for the 76ers.
Q: Is Trae Young still a thing? – Kevin.
A: As of now he’s still an Atlanta Hawks thing. Now we’ll see if the offloading of Dejounte Murray was a one-off or part of a makeover. As for Murray and the Heat, yes, it should be considered if available. There is talent there can be maximized with the right fit.
