Q: Giannis Antetokounmpo is in a Heat uniform now and trying to win another chip. That’s all that matters now. Same when Jimmy Butler came, a lot of talk about what he can’t do and will not be, and then we go to two NBA Finals with JB and one conference finals in five years. – Doug.
A: Such is life with a superstar in tow. The reality is that the distractions will be ample and amplified. So Doc Rivers chooses to denigrate Giannis Antetokounmpo, it goes viral, and then Giannis has to take the time to formulate a response that is both measured and tactful. Yes, it would be easier to just concentrate on the games, but that is not how life is in the entertainment realm. Similarly, there were a lot better things to do from this perspective than to have to chronicle the responses to Doc’s comments from Erik Spoelstra and Giannis. But stardom means distractions. It’s how you handle them that defines both character and the ability for a team to move forward with the main thing.
Q: Ira, so far the Heat appear to have gotten the advantage in the Giannis Antetokounmpo trade, based on the statistics of how the young players we sent out are doing with Milwaukee so far. How do you see it? – Barry, Deerfield Beach.
A: As playing out as expected. If the Heat did not receive the superior immediate benefit, then something would be wrong, considering the youth and draft capital sent out. Plus some of the players sent out by the Heat (Tyler Herro, Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Kel’el Ware) yet could be flipped for draft capital by the Bucks. The intriguing element from this perspective is Kasparas Jakucionis turning into something special.
Q: Myron Gardner would be so much better. – Don.
A: This was in response to the post on Tim Hardaway Jr.’s decreasing role. For now, figure on the primary reserves remaining, in no particular order, Bobby Portis Jr., Ryan Conwell and Andrew Wiggins/Pelle Larsson (whichever doesn’t start). But there certainly could come a point where Tim’s token minutes are shifted elsewhere, perhaps opening a door for Myron Gardner.