Q: Ira, with Davion Mitchell back, does Erik Spoelstra start him? – Lance.
A: We could get a better read on Sunday in Orlando, when Davion Mitchell is expedited to make his return from the calf soreness that has had him sidelined. Then again, until Tyler Herro returns next month from his ankle surgery, the lineup figures to remain in flux. In the short term, it would not be surprising to see Dru Smith start again, as he did in Wednesday night’s exhibition against the Spurs. Beyond that, Spoelstra tends to prefer to get a player in a defined role and maximize continuity. So rather than alter the second unit when Tyler returns, it could be as simple as opening the season with Dru as a starting placeholder for Tyler, and then utilize Davion as a bench spark through the remainder of the preseason, the start of the season, and then after Tyler returns.
Q: Why not any discussions on Bam Adebayo’s development? Everyone is discussing the young players on rookie contracts, but no one is talking about the Heat’s highest-paid player’s development. Aren’t you concerned about a player who has been in the NBA eight years, but hasn’t really developed an offensive game? I really wish this topic weren’t ignored. It’s almost like the max paid players get a pass. Do you really think Bam will lead the Heat to a championship? – Brian, Miami.
A: On the defensive end? Perhaps. But I agree that you can’t have your highest-paid player as a middling offensive presence. While this is only preseason, it also sets a tone. At the moment, there simply isn’t enough there from Bam Adebayo on the offensive end. On a team that can’t score, Bam has to score.
Q: Why is the Heat game at 6 p.m. Monday, a weeknight? – Tal.
A: Because next door to State Farm Arena, where the Heat in their fourth exhibition face the Hawks, the Falcons will be hosting the Bills at Mercedes-Benz Stadium at 7:15 p.m. in the earlier of two games on Monday Night Football. So, yes, the empty seats at Hawks games will be even emptier, with the Heat at least able to avoid their postgame traffic.
Originally Published: October 11, 2025 at 6:05 AM EDT