Q: Ira, I almost hate to write this, but at some point, doesn’t the Heat brass have to consider that Bam Adebayo is the odd-fitting piece? They seem to be constantly trying to find players that can play with Bam and complement Bam, instead of just acknowledging that Bam is kinda the “problem” – at least he is on this roster. I have to think Bam would fetch a generous return, considering how well he would complement another team’s established star(s) (Spurs, anyone?) and get them into the championship conversation. Is it crazy to think we should trade Bam, and that a starting five of Kasparas Jakucionis, Nikola Jovic, Kel’el Ware, Jaime Jaquez Jr and Tyler Herro would be awfully fun to watch on our way to the lottery? – Aram, Raleigh, N.C.
A: Your point is well made that Bam Adebayo is the type of player who best complements the best players, as evidenced by his Olympic success with Team USA. But if you believe the Heat can return to contention in a reasonable timeframe, then he also is the type of elite complementary component you would want on your roster. Ultimately, that is what it comes down to. But yes, if the Heat see this rebuild going more than three years out, then a player who is 28 might not not be the best use of cap resources. As for going all-in on youth, a lineup such as you mentioned is the type of thing the Hornets have gone with in recent years. So would you honestly be willing to tolerate playing at Charlotte level?
Q: What spurred this local interest on, with Heat games being on Local 10? – Bram.
A: At some point, you have to get your product in front of the fans. With surcharges for Heat games on some systems, eyeballs that could become potential ticket holders become lost. To me, that is the mistake with the Apple TV+ package with MLS and Inter Miami. It’s as if they largely have disappeared from the airwaves.
Q: What does it say about Heat players that Erik Spoelstra doesn’t know his opening-night lineup? – Ted.
A: Not much, since Erik Spoelstra assuredly by now very much knows his opening-night lineup, but simply is not telling. There is no way you go through weeks of the preseason without a clear focus on how it all starts. Now, whether the lineup of choice lasts is another question.