Heat Check: January

Here we are, deep into winter, and the Heat have started to catch fire. After a dark month in December, with Wade getting his wrist pulled like pull-start lawnmower and both Posey and Walker having one too many helpings of mashed potatoes and gravy, the Heat struggled. The lost 5 in a row at one point, and then headed out on a 6 game road trip without Pat Riley, Shaq, Wade, Posey and Walker.

And Ron Rothstein was left in charge of what was left.

But the Heat started the road trip, and have now won two straight. That is a sign - positive? Yeah. Is the big turnaround coming? Maybe.

There are a lot of things to keep track of. Namely, Shaq will return January 15th, but is with the team right now in San Francisco -as is James Posey and 'Toine Walker. All three have been working out in Miami while the Heat were on the road. Also, Dwyane Wade has returned. His wrist is a little tender, but the "s-word" hasn't surfaced yet, so that is good. Speaking of, Riley has gone through his procedures and is coming out ok. He may return to the team in a matter of a few weeks.

There is more positive news. Chris Webber, whose contract was recently bought out by the Sixers, will clear waivers on Monday and has said the Heat is on his wishlist. The Heat have been responsive, saying that they are interested and will see if it is a good fit for both parties. Landing Webber would increase the front court depth on this team, and protect it from injury and even lethargy. Walker would have to see his minutes cut up, and maybe this would even give Riley a new spirit.

Also, Steve Francis is considering a buyout with the Knicks. He is unhappy in NY and is out in Houston "rehabbing his knee". Although Isiah Thomas has publicly stated that a buyout has not been discussed, there are several sources involved in the situation that state otherwise. Francis would be an interesting fit for the Heat as he would be able to provide depth at both PG and SG. His offense tends to be to look for his own shot, but with talent like Wade and Shaq on the team and dominating the play calling, he would have to become more deferential. Considering that this team is strong willed and iron-fisted with Riley controlling the circus, and a champion to boot, this may be an ideal situation for Francis to reclaim his value in this league.

So, the Heat are starting to hit their stride. Everyone is getting healthy and other contributors have emerged in Wright and Kapono; both players watching their PT grow as their time grows.