Heat Visit White House and Hit Campaign Trail

The Miami Heat started their run for a second straight term as NBA champions officially at the start of the NBA season, but it seems like they are only now starting to gear up for a serious run.

Is it too late, with Wade going down? Some say yes.

The Heat have lost 3 of their last 4 games, and are working on forging a new identity, yet again, in-season to stockpile those wins.


It was an odd scene to witness the Heat at the White House, getting the championship treatment. President Bush talked about the Heat's "15 Strong" mantra and focused on the teamwork the Heat displayed and how the stars of this team overcame many obstacles and put the team ahead of all other agendae.

Strangely, that didn't seem to be the case for the Heat this season as they seemed to hand things over to Wade while the rest of the team showed themselves too bloated and fat on their single championship. Riley did suspend James Posey and Antoine Walker for not being in game shape -- in January. Now with Wade out, they are forced to pick up the pieces. Riley returned just in time -- to prove he wasn't just hanging around to grab another ring.

Wade rejoined the team for the first time in a while for this special occasion. It was like seeing Superman on crutches, or perhaps the Flash. Wade had his shoulder in a sling, which was hidden underneath his suit coat. This team, which depended on him so much, will have to earn its own way to the playoffs while Wade works on rehabbing his shoulder. Shaq is calling for everyone to step up now.

Maybe it is too late?

Then again, maybe not.

The team looked loose and had fun in its meeting at the White House. Shaq joked with the President, who tried to dribble the basketball in the team photo. Maybe getting this kind of reprieve and treatment will help this team reconnect with its championship identity and get them rolling.


Then again, maybe not.

The critics are tough and there is not a lot of support for the Heat to get back to where they were. The polls reflect it as well.

Just because their #1 running mate was dropped for the time being, doesn't mean they still can't get in to the playoffs. Once there, they can make some big noise.

And maybe get a chance to revisit the President next year.