ASK IRA: Even with uneven offseason, could Heat actually move up in East standings?
Q: The biggest problem for the Heat, I think, is their starting five isn’t better than most starting fives in the league. Until one or two guys develop into better options than Kevin Love, Caleb Martin, Josh Richardson and the like, they’ll be in a lot of those last-minute games again. If it takes half a season or more again for the coaching staff to whip them into shape, they may be a lottery team again. – Morgan, New Orleans.
A: In the wake of losing out on Damian Lillard, it is reasonable for frustration to set in. And, yes, based on the offseason moves of the Bucks (certainly) and the Celtics (although what has Kristaps Porzingis done in the playoffs?), ground has been lost there. But Philadelphia is a mess of uncertainty, the Cavaliers are coming off a humbling playoff disappointment, the Knicks’ only tangible move was for Donte DiVincenzo, and the Nets, Hawks, Bulls, Raptors and Pacers are just a bunch of players thrown together, until proven otherwise. The Heat, with Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo and Erik Spoelstra have three of the best at their job as a starting point. So yes, it will be interesting to see how the Heat approach the regular season. But to say there are eight teams in the East that are definitively better is a bit of a stretch. Through it all, remember the Heat finished seventh in the East last season and wound up as a No. 8 seed. So even after losing two playoff starters and being dealt a rude awakening on the trade market, it is possible the Heat still wind up higher in the standing and with a higher playoff seed than when they went to the NBA Finals last season.
Q: Is Damian Lillard a Miami Heat if he only demanded a trade and not a specific destination? This felt more manipulated and personal against trading him to the Heat then it was about getting the best deal. I am even more confused. It feels like the Heat were punished, but Lillard ended up being rewarded? – Krisopher, San Diego.
A: It certainly appears that way. And perhaps Damian Lillard and his representation could have handled their end better. Ultimately, like any trade, it will take time for a true evaluation. But this very much was a unique process. That part is undeniable
Q: Do you think there will be more moves to be made by the Heat? — Len.
A: I do, especially with two spots still unclaimed on the standard roster. The greater question could be the timing. It is possible the Heat opt for flexibility on the back end of the roster, waiting before adding guaranteed money. But for a team in win-now mode, it seemingly would make sense to add more veteran talent.