ASK IRA: Is two-way Tyler asking too much of Heat’s Herro?
Q: How much stock do you put in what the players say, when asked who has made a step forward in training camp? Tyler Herro’s inefficient offense with too much dribbling was a big downside last year. Bam Adebayo said Tyler has corrected that and takes a minimum of dribbles and gets shots off faster, as well as making the right pass. Some players are very impressed with Nikola Jovic’s playmaking and shooting. If these improvements are realized in game situations, the Heat can be a very good team with the current roster, although Jovic might need another year or two to have a real impact. – Morgan, New Orleans.
A: I am expecting a step forward from Tyler Herro – on the offensive end. A player with his skill set typically adds more to his bag as he grows in the league. The concern is on the defensive end, and whether there will be more comfort to play him as a closer if opponents continue to seek him out on switches, particularly with the Heat able to field several defensive wings, including Jimmy Butler, Caleb Martin and Josh Richardson. As for Nikola Jovic, I agree that he still might be a year away, in part because of more-experienced options that Erik Spoelstra could put into play. It could be the playoff of others that determines how much Nikola plays.
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Q: I think if Kyle Lowry stays with the Heat the entire year he’s going to have a really good season. Kyle mentioned on media day that he still likes playing the game which doesn’t sound like a guy on the verge of retiring. He’s basically auditioning for another contract here or somewhere – Douglas.
A: I still think Kyle Lowry will remain a trade chip, simply because of the size of his expiring contract. Beyond that, he slowed precipitously last season, so we first have to see what he can offer at 37. Also, if Erik Spoelstra looks to maximize his wing options, it could lead to limited playing time or a limited role. That might not be what Kyle wants, but it also might be the best way to preserve him to the finish line.
Q: Was last season’s playoff run fool’s gold, or is this team, which is on paper less than last year, destined for the lottery? (Do they own their pick?) – Jim, Columbia, S.C.
A: Yes, they do their own pick, and have to exercise it due to the terms on the protected future first-rounder owed to the Thunder. As for where the Heat stand, it is too early to accentuate the negative or positive. There simply are too many unknowns at the moment regarding how they replace what Max Strus and Gabe Vincent offered during last season’s playoff run.
