ASK IRA: Are Bulls or Raptors the Heat’s preferred opponent in Friday’s winner-take-all game?
Q: Ira, if Toronto beats Chicago that is a tough matchup for the Heat. – Joel.
A: And if Chicago beat Toronto on Wednesday night, that’s a tough matchup for the Heat. I understand what you’re saying about Toronto’s length being a concern, particularly considering what the Hawks did to the Heat on the boards. But Chicago has a pair of players in DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine that can singularly will their team to victory. Of the three potential play-in opponents, I thought the Hawks were the best draw for the Heat. And then we saw what happened there.
Q: I think this was more about the Hawks and less about the Heat. They really do have a good team. Two All-Star guards, good length on the wings and a great rim protector. Give Erik Spoelstra this team and they make it to the Eastern Conference finals. Next up the No. 8 spot. – Douglas.
A: Which just shows with Quin Snyder the difference a quality coach can make. And yes, even going in, the Heat had the best player in Tuesday’s game, but the Hawks arguably had the better overall roster. And when Jimmy Butler wasn’t at his best, Atlanta’s depth of talent won out. Sobering, but reality.
Q: Don’t want to win Friday. We go from pick No. 20 to No. 14. And if a miracle occurs . . . – Greg.
A: Which is the longest of longshots when it comes to the NBA draft lottery. But again, the Heat simply might not be good enough to win on Friday. Such is the reality of a middling team in the midst of a middling season.
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