Q: It only took Erik Spoelstra 80 games to get Kel’el Ware where he should be, in the starting lineup. Now we’re talking. – Thomas.
A: Or not. First Kel’el Ware started 32 games before these last two games. As for these last two games of the regular season, consider what was fielded Friday night by the Wizards and Sunday by the Hawks. As much as anything, they likely stood as starts of opportunity, with Erik Spoelstra able to move Ware into the lineup at minimal risk. It would be difficult to fathom Kel’el starting in the play-in against the Hornets and their 3-point shooting. That seemingly would set up as a pick-and-roll disaster with Kel’el in drop coverage. (Although I’m sure Kon Kneuppel would be greatly appreciative.) Yes, Spoelstra has shown an ability to innovate with his postseason approaches over the years, but with this quick of a turnaround, not sure that he can get Kel’el in the right space to make it work against the Hornets’ approach.
Q: Now they’ve signed Jahmir Young to a standard contract, to me, this move feels a lot like when they picked up Kendrick Nunn at the end of the 2018–19 season. From what you know about how the Heat operate, is that a fair comparison? Thanks. – Hubble, Miami.
A: Don’t think so. Kendrick Nunn was an outside talent the Heat coveted for much of that season before signing him from the Warriors’ G League affiliate. This, when you get down to it, was more of a one-game reward for Jahmir Young’s efforts with the Heat’s G League team. Kendrick was signed with more of a long view. That does not necessarily appear to be the case with the Jahmir signing.
Q: Go to Cancun. It’s time.
A: And that could be the case by Tuesday night or shortly thereafter. But as of Sunday, not a single sombrero in the Heat locker room. Instead, there was the type of confidence one typically does not see exuded by a No. 10. To a man, they have insisted they are better than that. Next they have to show it.