Q: Hopefully the Heat fix their clunky offense versus the Celtics, because even on a bad day the Celts’ offense is a well-oiled machine. – Leonard, Cornelius, N.C.
A: In today’s NBA, I agree that it is about more than defense. You also have to keep pace. And with Jimmy Butler out (and, candidly, even when Jimmy has been in), keeping pace with that type of offense might be out of the Heat’s wheelhouse. This time, Tyler Herro will have to make shots as well as feed Bam Adebayo. But it also might be a bit much to ask for another 30-point game from Bam, as well as to expect Kyle Lowry to produce a high-octane, big-minutes performance. At the moment, the Celtics and Bucks appear to be at a level beyond the Heat.
Q: Ira, looks like the Heat made the right decision not signing P.J. Tucker. His stats for November have to be one of the worst for a starter in a month. – Joel.
A: But, as stated here previously, P.J. Tucker’s game never has been predicated on statistics. And, remember, the Heat were willing to go a full three guaranteed seasons for P.J. at money that would have wound up similar to the 76ers’ contract, when considering the lack of Florida income tax. There would have been nothing wrong with having both P.J. and Caleb Martin. That, in fact, would have left them in a better position from a depth standpoint.
Q: Ira, recently I find myself saying, shoot it already! It seems to me that I’m watching the Heat so many times that, looking for a better shot, they actually already had a good shot if they had just shot it quickly and not hesitated. Am I seeing things? – Brent, Wellington.
A: I agree. While good to better to best has become NBA mantra when it comes to shot selection, and while I’m not a fan of quick, off-the-dribble, jacked-up 3-pointers, your point is valid. There have been numerous times when shooters have passed up open looks with around 10 seconds left on the shot clock only to leave the Heat to hoist up desperation attempts to beat the shot-clock buzzer.
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