Q: I wouldn’t want to move Bam Adebayo or Tyler Herro for someone that’s not a superstar. We can probably pull in Kevin Durant without even giving up either one. – Dennis.
A: The problem with expectations of a Kevin Durant deal is the Heat do not have the type of draft capital or prospects that other teams can offer. So it would come down to whether Kel’el Ware, Nikola Jovic, Andrew Wiggins are enough to entice. And that could be out of the Heat’s control and instead whether other teams are willing to cast aside more valuable pieces of their future for a player who turns 37 before the start of next season. The Heat should want Kevin Durant, since he could unlock plenty on this roster. Whether they could land him is another story. So, yes, you would have to consider parting with Kel’el, if a competitive package even could be created.
Q: Ira, are there really 11 better defenders in the NBA than Bam Adebayo? – Syd.
A: This was in response to Bam Adebayo not only failing to make one of the two 2025 NBA All-Defensive teams, but placing 12th in the media balloting. And based on the Heat’s uneven season, it hardly was a surprise. The Heat this past season, to be candid, did not matter in the NBA big picture. For years. Bam has been stressing his qualifications for Defensive Player of the Year. So perhaps this will serve as motivation for even more defensive statements.
Q: Bam Adebayo is concentrating on his offensive game and that’s fine by me. I hope he continues to do so. Forget the defensive trophies. We all know he can defend. It’s about playing the four position with Kel’el Ware at the five at a high level. – Eddy.
A: Agree that if Bam Adebayo is to be cast at power forward, then more offense would be needed. But it’s not as if he has to forget about one to do the other. Bam will remain a defensive presence regardless of position or award voting. But with the max-level extension starting, more two-way play certainly should be embraced.