Q: Ira, the best visual of the summer had to be the Instagram from the Heat of Goran Dragic next to Kasparas Jakucionis. Like we said, lock those two up in the gym. – Michael.
A: It certainly was an intriguing selection that the Heat posted on social media, since word is that the Heat coaching staff is returning intact. But there also is something to be said about a veteran voice being available to a rookie who could be cast in a somewhat similar role. The question now is whether you can have too many voices, considering the presence in practices not only of Erik Spoelstra, but also of assistant coaches Chris Quinn, Malik Allen, Caron Butler, Octavio De La Grana, Eric Glass and Wayne Ellington, as well as Udonis Haslem also frequently jumping into practices. Goran is unquestionably an asset, and someone who seems destined for a Heat role, just as so many Heat players before made that transition (Alonzo Mourning, Keith Askins, Haslem, etc.). For now, though, it seems to be more of Goran being Goran, the type of sage basketball presence looking to pass on knowledge to the next generation.
In even more exciting news… Goran was at practice today 😃 pic.twitter.com/U2oiFkc4Py
— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) August 26, 2025
Q: Ira, you noted it Wednesday about Pelle Larsson’s early foul trouble for Sweden against Finland at EuroBasket. How do the Heat get him to break that habit? – Sanders.
A: While Pelle Larsson’s aggression can get the better of him at times with the Heat, I’m not sure you want to rein that in if you’re Erik Spoelstra. With Sweden, Pelle has to be a leading man, because he is Sweden’s only NBA man. With the Heat, the role would be far more limited, and, frankly, he would be inserted into games just for that aggression. Until Pelle gets to a 30-minute role with the Heat, I’m not sure you just don’t roll with his allotted six fouls. It is better to have a player pushing too hard and then reel back in, rather than the lack of effort and energy in the first place.
Q: Erik Spoelstra says players need to make him notice. Is Nikola Jovic making him notice? – Rory.
A: I would say based on Nikola Jovic’s opener Wednesday for Serbia at EuroBasket it would be difficult to say otherwise, as the leading scorer on a Serbia roster that includes Nikola Jokic, Bogdan Bogdanovic and other NBA-level talents. But when you watch Jovic with Serbia, it’s more of a player thriving in the open court, less in structure, playing off teammates, including Jokic’s passing. To maximize Jovic, it might require a degree of flexibility from Erik Spoelstra. This is not necessarily a player you make a focus, but rather one you set up to complement others. The fact that Jovic spoke of doing as much for Serbia’s team perhaps bodes well for his Heat return next month.