Q: So no Donovan Mitchell for the Heat? – Anderson.
A: Whoa, it’s not as if there ever was definitive Donovan Mitchell for the Heat, just the chance that if he failed to make his breakthrough to the conference finals, and if the Cavaliers failed with this current build, that chance might have proven more possible. Instead, it’s on to New York for both Donovan and the Cavaliers, which should mean no matter how much time Donovan might spend this summer at the Miami Pro League that he won’t be making such a move permanent anytime soon. That said, while a scorer of the highest level, his diminutive build might not have proved franchise altering for the Heat, just as it didn’t for the Cavaliers until other, ancillary moves were made. Positionally, the argument can continue to be made that Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kawhi Leonard or even Kevin Durant might be better fits for this Heat team. But other than the ugliest of meltdowns by the Cavaliers against the Knicks, figure on a Cavaliers extension or free-agency re-signing in the 2027 offseason with Cleveland being Donovan’s next move.
Q: Ira, I read your articles when they’re free and I’m glad I didn’t pay for you writing about Duncan Robinson returning. What are you . . .? – Steve.
A: I left off the rest as per my literary license. I didn’t say a Duncan Robinson return was probable or potentially even possible. The point being that this past season the Heat too often relied on good 3-point shooters when something above and beyond was needed. Even against Robinson and the Pistons, you could see Sunday the value of a player such as Sam Merrill for Cleveland. Perhaps not as a rotation player, but teams need at least something close on their roster. Simone Fontecchio was that at times for the Heat this past season, just not often enough.
Q: Giannis Antetokounmpo is a free agent next summer. If he wants to be on the Heat then he needs to do what Carmelo Anthony should’ve done, and just threaten to walk. – C.C.
A: Actually, Giannis Antetokounmpo has a player option for 2027-28, but, yes, can become a free agent in the 2027 offseason. And, yes, Carmelo Anthony could have created an easier and less painful Denver path to New York by stating his intention. But so far, Giannis has refused to do or say anything that might impact his image or perception. The problem is that in this league, those who act out (James Harden, Jimmy Butler, etc.) get their way. So now we wait to see how much Giannis wants his way.