Q: Ira, Erik Spoelstra and many others say Kel’el Ware is not playing good defense, and I guess the numbers on that don’t lie. Numerous times when I watch the game on TV, I notice where Kel’el is located on either offense or defense and I subconsciously think to myself, “Why is he way over there instead of near the rim” or wherever I would expect him to be? He seems to be wandering without a clear idea where he should be situated. What do you think his major faults on defense are? Everyone says his defense is poor, but we don’t hear exactly what the issues are. Can you enlighten us? – Rich, Plantation.
A: He too often floats, without specific awareness of positioning. And too often he attempts to succeed with his length rather than with his bulk, too much rebounding with his arms instead of his body. That doesn’t mean he’s not trying. He is. But trying is only part of the equation. Just as, if not more, important is doing it the right way. Such has been Erik Spoelstra’s push-pull with Kel’el’s minutes.
Q: Instead of saying Kel’el Ware was bad again, isn’t it more accurate to say that the Heat failed to get Ware enough shot attempts? Ware had three straight games of 20 points because he took enough shots. He’s a high-percentage shooter including 3-point shots. Give him the ball. – Jimmy, Sunrise.
A: Because it’s also about the other side of the court, as addressed in the question above. Yes, Kel’el Ware has displayed a deft touch at the 3-point line and as a lob finisher. But rotation minutes on a team that considers itself a contender requires two-way play unless you are dominant on the other end (as Tyler Herro can be with his scoring).
Q: I have to wonder if the locker room is OK. I can’t stand to watch a team not put in full effort. I was hoping that after Jimmy Butler was gone we would finally see full effort again. – Ron, Columbus, Ohio.
A: The true test of a team is in adversity. Yes, all smiles when the going was good. But this part of the schedule has meant a pair of tough defensive challenges against the Mavericks and another pair of tough defensive challenges against the Magic. So when the going gets tough, we’re now about to see where the Heat go.