Q: Ira, we have to win both of these games against the Nets or something is wrong. The strength of schedule is in our favor. – Frank.
A: Agree about these games against Brooklyn on Tuesday and Thursday nights at Kaseya Center. A team fighting to stay out of the play-in can’t be losing games like this with six weeks to play. But strength of schedule also can be overstated. Yes, the Heat, by opposing winning percentage, have the 10th easiest remaining schedule in the league and an edge there against the 76ers. But much of the opposing low-end winning percentage for the Heat is concentrated in these two remaining games against the Nets and then three against the Wizards, who now are introducing Trae Young into their mix. Lose any of those five and then Heat would have only themselves to blame. But also consider that the Heat have two games remaining apiece against the Cavaliers and Raptors, with all four of those on the road, as well as remaining home games against the Pistons, Lakers, Spurs and Celtics, and then a road rematch in Houston. So it’s not as if an easy button can be pushed. This by no means can be considered a comfortable closing schedule.
Q: Ira, Davion Mitchell hurting might not be the worst thing. It opens up minutes for Kasparas Jakucionis. – Pete.
A: And it allows Tyler Herro to play on the ball more often, so there is that, as well. But Davion Mitchell ailing when it comes at the same time as Norman Powell being sidelined with his groin strain hardly is optimal. Yes, this roster is built to withstand absences, but you still want as many weapons as possible. With Kasparas Jakucionis and Dru Smith, the Heat have depth behind Davion, but Mitchell’s defense still is a component that works well in this mix.
Q: Ira, I like how after every time Erik Spoelstra wins with zone defense he talks about how he doesn’t like it. – Cliff.
A: That’s not quite what he said Monday. Basically, he does not want it to become a crutch, with his players thinking that if their on-ball defense lags they simply can retreat to the comfort of the zone. Instead, he has made clear that the effort expectation in the zone is the same, if not more, than in man-to-man defense.