Q: Ira, as rosters become squeezed, we are starting to see some known players being waived. I like when the Heat had an open roster spot, just in case. Now we’re out of room. – Bob.
A: Or you can look at it from the perspective that the Heat waited until the eve of camp to best see who was available before addressing their primary area of need, by adding Precious Achiuwa to the power rotation. And remember, Precious’ contract is non-guaranteed, so he can be subbed out for another player at any time. Of all the Heat’s offseason moves when it came to protecting themselves against the luxury tax while also filling out their roster, there have been a pair that have drawn the most inspection. When it comes to Dru Smith, there is no issue here, considering it is a minimum-scale deal with a pair of non-guaranteed seasons in the second and third years. If Dru returns to anything close to his previous form, that would stand as a bargain deal going forward. What I still have trouble wrapping my head around is the haste to guarantee Keshad Johnson. The Heat’s perspective seemingly was that if they waived Keshad by that June deadline, another team would have swooped in with a claim, eliminating the option of the Heat moving him to a two-way deal. Fair enough. But as more known quantities come available, it would seem that greater flexibility could have had its benefits. That said, if Keshad blossoms, the Heat will have the right to match offers as a restricted free agent next summer. Further, for those who insist the Heat move more into a developmental space, Keshad does provide another developmental prospect. So, don’t necessarily agree with the approach, but also can appreciate the thinking.
Q: Prayers for Andy Elisburg. Health first and foremost and glad to hear that he is working, something I know he loves to do for Miami. – Douglas.
A: Agree. His story has been inspiring, while also reflective of work-life balance. Or, in his case, work-health balance. The reality is the Heat were in safe salary-cap hands before this interruptive illness and setback and remain in safe salary-cap hands.
Q: Does Bam Adebayo have another gear? Can his girlfriend, A’ja Wilson, inspire Bam to become an MVP? – Stuart, Miami.
A: You’ll need to forward this to Asl A’ja.