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Heat Trade Wade? Bullsh...!

Ok, you know the offseason is getting a little crazy when we start hearing ridiculous trade rumors and people actually start believing them.

Take, for instance, this idea that the Heat are actually shopping Dwyane Wade and the #2 overall pick for the Bulls' #1 pick. Yes, you read that correctly and yes the Chicago Tribune actually ran the story.

To make matters worse, they even made a poll that dares to ask:

Heat star Dwayne Wade said he's heard rumors involving the Bulls' No. 1 pick and Miami. Would you do it?
Yes -- No. 1 pick and some minor Bulls for Wade and Miami's No. 2 pick
No way -- we need Derrick Rose BAD

Wade, who is back home in Chicago rehabbing and getting ready for the upcoming Olympics, stated that he is ignoring the rumors but that he feels good to be wanted. That is, after all, what a trade rumor's value is.

Of course, it is also a polite way of saying, "yeah right!"

But what does this say about the Bulls intentions? Are they going to draft Beasley and keep Kirk Hinrich as their de facto point guard? Or are they going to draft Rose and deal Ben Gordon or Hinrich? One thing is for sure - there is absolutely no truth to this rumor - after all, 84.2% (as of 6/3/08) of their readership voted for the trade. Which means it is a no-brainer - and last I checked, Riley is a pretty sharp fellow.

Just more proof that this offseason has dragged on quite a bit though.

Bulls Want Rose, Heat Will Get Beasley

I am calling it now.

In fact, I called it the second the Bulls, with their 1.7% chance, got the top pick. They are going to go for Derrick Rose because he is the prototypical point guard and in case you haven't noticed these days, teams with good point guards perform well in the playoffs.

Rose is also from Chicago and how nice would it be to have the hometown kid stay in town to work professionally?

Then there is also the sudden distaste for Kirk Hinrich. Because to make the case to draft Rose, one would have to deal away Hinrich who is holding his spot. The fallout then means look for the Bulls to shop Hinrich around in order to make room for kid. Expect some insane trade ideas to start bubbling; cue Sam Smith.

What's that? He has already begun? Oh. Marion for Hinrich and Thomas? Too good to be true. The Bulls wouldn't be that dumb.

Look, the Heat don't need Rose. Sure, he is a fine point guard and has great tools, but to be honest who is going to have the ball in their hands at the end of games? Wade, the 2006 Finals MVP, or Rose a rookie from Chicago (like Wade) that helped push his Memphis team to the NCAA Finals this past season (where they folded in the final minutes)? Because last I checked, there is only one ball in basketball and even if you have two dynamic play makers, you can only have the ball in one of their hands at a time.

It isn't like Rose or Wade are known for their jumpshooting, either.

Again, Michael Beasley is a better fit for the Heat and if the Bulls actually do draft Rose it would be a blessing in disguise as perhaps Riley would be protected from Riley by the Bulls' selection. No, a Derrick Rose pick here in Miami doesn't make sense, but in Chicago it does because the Bulls are certainly fed up with Hinrich - that has run its course. They know what they got with Hinrich.

So if a deal for Hinrich can be had Miami would be better off pulling for that and drafting Beasley along the way. Regardless, it is obvious the Bulls like Rose which means Miami will get Beasley.

And that falls right into my diabolical plan.

Miami Heat Pick Number Two Overall

This could be a great thing, believe it or not.

I know that the Bulls somehow gumped their way into yet another good draft pick. Hey, they haven't done a whole lot with what they have brought together thus far...so why would they start now?

More importantly, the #2 pick for the Heat is good for two reasons: 1) the Heat will have their decision made for them, which, strangely, seems to work better for them and 2) they will pay a bit less for a legit #1 talent than the Bulls.

There is great debate about who should be #1. Michael Beasley or Derrick Rose? Well, there are points for either side and such a decision could plague a franchise forever. Sam Bowie or Akeem Olajuwon? Or Michael Jordan? Chicago could pick that player that might not pan out and Miami would be "stuck" with the other player. There is more pressure to pick 1st than 2nd for that very reason which in turn means less pressure for the Heat to make their pick. And the great debate essentially would be answered for them by Chicago. Think about how Caron Butler fell to them back in 2002 and how Dwyane Wade fell to them in 2003.

The other reason is that the #2 pick makes a bit less money than the #1 pick. Greg Oden got 4.6M last year while Kevin Durant received 4.1M. Over the span of their contracts, Durant will make 27.3 while Oden will pull in 30.3M (through 2011-2012). That is a difference of about 3M, which could be enough to sign a role player or two over that span.

So even though Miami still will not be making its first ever #1 pick, this may actually be a blessing in disguise.

Talk #2 overall with us.

Lottery Live!

Well, 14-4 have been selected and Miami is not among them. Somehow Chicago snuck up into the top 3 - makes you wonder how much Stern loves Chicago.

Beasley, Rose and Mayo guaranteed.

Bullsh*t. C'mon. How do the Bulls defy the odds and get the #1 pick? Well, whichever decision they make, the Heat can pick the other option. So the Beasley/Rose debate will be answered for them.

Do the Heat trade down? Hmm...

Lottery Fate for Heat Tonight

The thread is pulled and ready to be snipped. The fate of an awful 20th season for the Heat will finally be realized tonight. Will the spoiled fruits of their labors be rewarded with a #1 pick or will they slip down the slope to the #4 pick and force to rethink their quick turnaround?

The Heat are a playoff team right now, let's face it. A healthy Dwyane Wade, Shawn Marion and a solid supporting cast can get them back to the postseason. But this is not just about getting back, but about getting back on top.

The top pick would assure the Heat of a better chance of getting there.

The Heat also have limited financial options. Sure, after this season they will be rid of Shawn Marion's contract, but if they want to keep him they have to pony up. Getting a young stud at a reduced rate for a few years would help greatly in their rebuilding efforts. Even if rumors of Carlos Boozer's desire to play in Miami are true, the Heat cannot be realistically expected to make a big splash in the trade market.

Then again, no one thought Antoine Walker's contract could be moved. Or Shaq's for that matter.

So, the Heat will find out what fate awaits their draft this year. Finally, we can end the speculation about what pick the Heat will have and start focusing on the talent that is available and what effect it could have on this team. I still say with the number one pick the Heat should draft...Michael Beasley. Tonight, we find out if that is even a possibility.

Discuss with us.

If Heat Get First Choice, It Should Be Beasley

Derrick Rose, are you serious?

Don't get me wrong, I love the kid's game. But if the Heat get the #1 pick overall, are we seriously going to draft Derrick Rose?

It is the age-old question, practically, of most-talented vs. most-needed. Should the Heat draft the most talented player in the draft or the position they need the most?

Well, if the answer to that question was not the same then what is the point of picking #1 overall? More importantly, if the question must be asked if a player is the most talented or not, again, what is the point of picking #1?

In either case, it should be clear cut.

Michael Beasley is the most talented player in the draft. That is really not an argument. There are some who think Rose is a #1 caliber pick, but more talented than Beasley? At best it is a debate.

Regardless, Miami - if they are fortunate to get the #1 pick - need to go with the best talent available. Just ask the Trailblazers if they made a mistake going for need instead of talent back in 1984.

New Miami coach Erik Spoelstra would agree. "At this point, it's too early to say and a lot depends on where that lottery ball bounces. We'll do our due diligence and the history of the draft shows, you need to take the best player available." I also picked Beasley for the Heat, should we get the first pick, in a previous article.

The reason is simple, draft history shows that you get the best talent available, not the most pressing need. If that were the case, the Heat, by Riley's own admission, may have gotten Chris Bosh instead of Dwyane Wade if it had received the #4 pick in the 2003 draft. In fact, they beat the Raptors to end that season and if they had not, who knows - maybe the Heat draft at the fourth spot. Did the Heat really need another power forward at that point?

Michael Cunningham, at the Sun-Sentinel, throws his hat into the ring for Rose in the following way, "But there's no need to look at Rose's March Madness or Wade's wishes to see Rose is the answer for the Heat. These NBA playoffs suggest it, too. Ask perplexed point guards Rajon Rondo, Jason Kidd, Steve Nash, Rafer Alston and Bobby Jackson."

Sounds reasonable, except for one big thing - Dwyane Wade is the Heat's de facto point guard. At the end of games, he is going to have the ball in his hands. That worked in 2006 and truthfully, is there anyone on that list Cunningham just gave us that is better than Wade? Another reason why Rose should not be drafted - he is not better than Wade and Spoelstra is going to be putting the ball in the superstar's hands at the ends of games, not a rookie's. No matter how high his draft pick was.

Because at the end of the day, this team will be built around Dwyane Wade. You also have to keep him happy and drafting a guy to give the ball to for the end of games won't work for Wade. It isn't necessarily an ego thing but has more to do with style of play, Wade needs the ball in his hands to be effective. He is a playmaker and sets up his teammates. One of the reasons why he is among the league leaders in turnovers is because he is involved in more offensive plays than most in the league.

You take the best player available - that is Michael Beasley. You can argue on a given day that Derrick Rose is first pick caliber, but you can't realistically make an argument for Beasley being the 2nd pick.

The Coach Spo Era Begins

2,186 games coached in the NBA. That is regular season and postseason. A few titles to talk about. A couple hall of fame players to call by first name. And a ticket punched for the hall of fame himself.

Is it any wonder Pat Riley is burned out?

Could he realistically say he wanted to coach this upcoming season? For what? He just went through possibly the worst season coaching he has ever had, but if you put him to it he probably would say it was worth it to get that championship in 2006. Then again, maybe not.

So, he found somebody who was ready for the challenge. Erik Spoelstra is that person and he has been doing everything he could to get himself in this position from watching video tape to breaking down players' shots to shining shoes. Whatever it took. And here he is. He even got an immediate phone call from Dwyane Wade saying congrats and talking about how excited he is for the future.

Gone is the past. The recent past with all its scabs. The Shaq apathy, the Riley tight-fisted control. All of it comes off. There is no safety net - and that is exactly what this team needs.

When Riley made the move back in 2003, it was in favor of little known Stan Van Gundy - Jeff's brother. In fact, even when Riley left it was Jeff Van Gundy who took over for the Knicks - and they didn't miss a beat it seemed. The Riley protege is going to have to prove himself to the rest of the world, but not to Riley. And that is what matters here as the move upstairs is made for good - so we think.

This team needs to be about change and a new growth. A new direction. Riley can't provide that, Spoelstra can. Could the same be said about a retread like Jeff Van Gundy or Mike Fratello or even a Ron Rothstein?

Let the Spo Era begin. The Heat have a top 4 pick and will be looking to climb out of the cellar. Better to do it with a completely new coach than one who is heading to the hall of fame.

Join the discussion about the Heat's new coach, Erik Spoelstra.

Riley Calls It Quits; Spoelstra Takes Over

Where were you the last time you heard this news: Pat Riley is retiring as coach. And the time before that? And the time before that?

Well, Heat fans - and Knick fans - should be able to remember those moments. I still remember the surreal moment we landed Pat Riley here in South Florida. The fortune of this franchise changed instantly.

And now, Riley is once again leaving the bench and heading upstairs. In 2003, four days before the start of the regular season a change was made. Back then it was in favor of Stan Van Gundy, who is currently leading his young Magic team through the playoffs. Today the change is being made for a young Erik Spoelstra, a virtual unknown outside of these parts. And really only known to those of us who are hard core fans of the Heat.

Spoelstra, at 37, is now the youngest coach in the NBA - 69 days the junior to Lawrence Frank. He has been a fixture on the Heat's bench since 2003, mostly working with players on their jump shooting techniques and scouting. His coaching presence has been felt as even Dwyane Wade has paid complements to Spoelstra for helping him grown and develop his game.

Earlier in the season, Riley had stated he was committed to coaching for the remainder of his contract. A big factor in the change of heart may have come from Shaq - who was with the team at the time Riley made that statement but has now been dealt to Phoenix for Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks. Most obviously, this is the reason why Stan Van Gundy got cold feet back in 2006 and why Riley stepped in - due to Shaq's pressing.

Now, Riley is free to be simply the team president and GM. Naming Spoelstra to this position has been a while in the making. Other candidates were Ron Rothstein and even Mike Fratello - and I would suggest Jeff Van Gundy - but the time is now to rebuild so it might as well go all the way.

Maybe a big influence, too, in Riley's decision was his hall of fame induction. What more does he have to prove? He won a championship in 2006 and without all the injuries and locker room drama, and some questionable offseason decisions, who knows if another one wasn't in the stars. But that isn't for him to worry about - at least not on the court anyway. That is Erik Spoelstra's job - and let's hope it is not like it was for Stan Van Gundy.

Discuss the Heat's coaching move with us here. (Thanks Wadeskywalker for breaking the news on our site!)

Further Reading
Heat.com makes announcement on Riley coaching change in favor of Erik Spoelstra.

Star Jones In Wade's Fave Five?

In an effort to totally make readers in the blogosphere bleck up their breakfast, I am reporting on a rumor that - God help Wade - must not be true.

Apparently, Dwyane Wade is dating Star Jones. Let's see, you are getting a divorce from your wife and this is who you left her for? A woman that is 20 years older, has had gastro-intestinal bypass surgery and numerous plastic surgeries? What, Joan Rivers wasn't available? Barbara Walters?

D-Wade! What the hell is wrong with you? I mean, his now ex-wife was not exactly hot either but hey, he was young and in love and they had a child together. He kind of was trapped in it I guess. And now he is an NBA superstar and there is going to be a lot of temptation out there.

But Star Jones? She is the butt, pun intended, of many a bad joke. Why?

That is a lot of smoke and mirrors, friends for one wardrobe. Maybe they met in the hospital - he was there to get his knee scoped, she was there to get her stomach stapled. Let's hope this isn't true. For the sake of good taste.

Derrick Rose or Michael Beasley

The Heat will have to wait until May 20th until they can even seriously entertain this decision - but let's pretend.

If Miami gets the #1 pick in the draft, which as it stands they currently have a 25% chance to do, who should they select as their #1 overall pick? Derrick Rose or Michael Beasley?

Both prospects are highly-touted for their athleticism and their potential on the court.

Miami should take, without hesitation, Michael Beasley. I say this definitively understanding that I will probably change my position on this about 5 or 6 times - in the next week. And I say this for one simple reason: Dwyane Wade.

Wade's whole game revolves around having the ball in his hands. Rose's game, as well, revolves around having the ball in his hands. Since his position, by definition, is a point guard this might prove to be a problem. Dwyane Wade, however, is not a point guard, but who is Riley going to trust at the end of games more? A rookie point guard or Finals MVP Dwyane Wade?

Exactly.

And that isn't necessarily the case only if Riley does return. This is Wade's team, and how successful Wade would be without the ball would prove to be a project in of itself. Now, that isn't to say that Wade cannot defer offensively to other players - he has done that, just check how he played with Shaq.

Which brings us to Beasley. Who is more likely going to aid Wade's game? A player who plays point guard but needs the ball to be effective or a power forward who could go into the post and play the two man game with Wade?

Heat Prepare for Draft; Playoffs Roar On

Well, even though the Heat are not in the playoffs, there is still a lot of work for the franchise. They are looking to get their first ever #1 pick (and hopefully their last...) and in preparation of that the Heat have to scout and work out various scenarios.

The draft order won't be known until May 20th. Until then, the Heat will have to examine scenarios for not just the #1 or #2 picks, but the #3 and #4 (with the worst record in the NBA, they can't pick lower than #4 in the draft).

There is a lot going on over at MiamiHeatwave still, as well. Because the Heat's official season is over, we are gearing up for the offseason as well as keeping our fingers on the pulse of the playoffs. Join us in the Playoff Playhouse to talk post-season basketball and in the Draft Chamber to talk about the upcoming NBA draft and scouting.

Pat Riley To Decide Coaching Future

Look for a decision to be made very soon about Pat Riley's coaching plans.

Reports are that even as early as this weekend a decision will be made about whether or not Pat Riley will return to the bench next season. He hasn't made that decision public yet, but one could make arguments either way.

Would Riley come back to reclaim his status among the NBA coaching elite after such a horrible season? Did all the losses scare him off or make him hunger once again to prove himself?

Or will he feel sated by the Hall of Fame induction and feel less inclined to grind through another NBA season as its coach?

Watch for his announcement to be made very soon if indeed there will be a coaching change. Why? Because he will have to hire someone on as coach and the big names, Jeff Van Gundy, Rick Carlisle, may be gone if the Heat wait too long. There is, of course, the option of promoting from within but Riley's heir apparent is Erik Spoelstra, yet it isn't clear if Riley is ready to turn the reigns over to a young coach who will have to reshape and rebuild this team into a playoff contender. There is added pressure to achieve a turnaround because of Wade's contract status in 2010 - which will enable him to be a free agent.

Ron Culp Retires

His banner is now hanging atop the American Airlines Arena but it might seem a bit lonely tonight for retiring Heat head trainer Ron Culp. Two years ago, he lost his wife to cancer, and it sure must be bitter sweet for Culp who has given 20 years to the Heat organization with his caring hands.

He has seen every injury in the franchise's history up close. He has been there to tend to a sprained ankle, a dislocated shoulder, or to help a player off the floor after tearing up his ACL or MCL.

And now, the Heat are giving something back to him, by naming their training facility the "Culp Room" they are commemorating the man who essentially built it.

It was a classy move for an organization that is down in the dumps these days. But win or lose, Ron Culp was there for Miami when it was in its most pain, and tonight he leaves it so the franchise can find its own way to mend. But this problem is not Culp's to fix or patch up. No ointment, bandaid or tape will help this team pick up from where it left. Yet, like a bookend, the Heat complete their 20th season right where they started - with 15 wins and with a new guy in the training room.

A bitter sweet win for Miami, but no less a perfect time for Ron Culp to hang it up. Thanks for the years of service, Culp.

Heat Have to Market Their Frustrations

He sat there bouncing a ball behind his knees while answering questions. The image seems almost like an uncomfortable child fielding tough questions, keeping himself vulnerable while at the same time distracted to assert some sort of control. The lifestyle of an NBA athlete, especially a high profile one that jumped into the spotlight, must be tough. The temptations are too great for anyone to overcome and naturally, some of those temptations are coming to bear on Dwyane Wade and his home life.

Admittedly, he has had some problems with his childhood sweetheart, but the tough times off the court seem to be navigable. Those are private matters, of course, and how much that has affected his public life, his role on an NBA team, are being openly examined.

After all, how much did Shaq's divorce affect his life on the court? Did it affect his ability to stay out of foul trouble? To rebound? To hustle? Or was it because the Heat had no jump shooting presence to call off the dogs and keep Shaq from getting crowded?

As usual, the private matters are redundant - yet they become a part of the vital story Miami has to tell to its public in order to sell itself not only for this season, but for next season. Because the private intrigue is the sizzle that makes the players more human, and less like failures in a chemistry process that is the 2007-2008 season.

The picture that will emerge will be one of frustration and near-misses, not bad roster moves and apathetic attitudes.

The reason why is because Miami is vying for the top pick in this year's NBA draft. To do so, some suspect that they will have to engage in a hard core marketing campaign to the NBA - not just to its fans. They will have to sell everyone on the fact that the Heat did not quit, but instead had to scrap the season that was not going anywhere.

That is the reason for all the injuries. Legit or not, it is a murky situation. If you call out a player for not being injured, you risk equally as much as you do playing him in a season spiraling out of control. Yet in playing them, you risk finishing with a decent enough record to land low in the lottery instead of high up where you want to be: you land in no man's land.

The Heat have the difficult task of straddling a losing while trying to get to a point where they can rebuild the team into a champion. A losing season because they did make bad roster moves and, combined with an apathetic attitude, suffered from the effects. Not a bad season because of off the court troubles.

So as much as Miami tries to sell its case to its fans and the NBA, we all need to be mindful of what actions are being taken to ultimately rebuild this franchise. The makeover officially began when Shaq was shipped off for Marcus Banks and Shawn Marion. Despite his methods, or whether or not you agree with them, Riley does have the ability to rebuild this team into a winner and he also, and more importantly, has the desire to do so. Yet, he may view a smaller role for himself in it all, choosing to hang up his clip board for good - now that he is in the hall of fame.

Another aid could be the saga with the Seattle Supersonics and their attempt to move from Seattle to Oklahoma City. Giving them the #1 pick in this offseason, with their attempt to escape from Seattle for a less NBA-friendly city of Oklahoma City, might prove to be too tantalizing for the NBA and their doubters. Perhaps Miami, with the other franchises in the running, emerge as the best candidate to utilize the top pick to rebuilding the team and never coming back into the lottery for a long time. The Grizzlies, the Timberwolves, the Sonics, all seem to be hovering at the bottom these days.

So as much as Miami has to sell its frustration to its fans, it needs to also make sure the NBA execs get the same message. Is Wade shutting it down to play for Miami next season or to play in this summer's Olympics? What about Udonis Haslem? Shawn Marion? Is this team really as snake-bitten as it seems?

Or is it all just a mirage?

Pistons Are Model for Rebuild

No, of course I couldn't just shut it down. Like Mark Blount said about he and Ricky Davis:

"We prepare our bodies and minds for the grind of 82 games. We're going to finish the season. That's what we do."

Who would have thought that the players with the most heart this season would be the guys we traded for at the start of the season? Hats off to Mark Blount and Ricky Davis - there is no one that can honestly ever question your professionalism. Then again, this season-turned-misery thing is probably nothing new to them.

That said, Miami squares off against the Pistons. The only drama left to figure out here is if the Pistons, like the rest of the Heat starters, will even bother to show up. If not, we have some problems on our hands as we may actually win the game. Then again, this is the Pistons and they never take a play off, let alone a game.

Which begs the question - with Miami rebuilding, who should they look to as a model? My money is, sadly, on Detroit. Sad because remember when they were our budding rivals for Eastern Conference supremacy? Well, that all vanished after last season. Still, look at how consistent they are year to year - and the reason is simply because they have a starting 5 that has played together for the better part of 5 seasons now.

They built with a core of Rip Hamilton, Chauncey Billups, Rasheed Wallace and Tayshaun Prince. They survived jettisoning the contract of Ben Wallace and even survived a horrible draft pick in Darko Milicic - imagine if they actually drafted Dwyane Wade?

Yet Joe Dumars has had success drafting talent, too. Look to this season as a prime example as they were able to draft Aaron Afflalo and Rodney Stuckey. Both young guards give the Pistons more youth, more depth. Then there is a talent like Amir Johnson just waiting for his time as well as a Jason Maxiell whose time has come and has become a consistent contributor for this team.

They will come into Miami tonight, run a few laps then plant their starters' butts on the bench because they have done what they are supposed to do - lock up their spot in the playoffs.

And they have done so without a low post threat in the manner that Riley incessantly worries about. The Pistons are a perimeter-based team both on offense and defense. They have no drop-dead sexy big name players in the sense that they have one player that strikes fear. No, instead they work as a unit, as a team. Ever since they made their first surprising run at a world title back against the Shaq and Kobe Lakers, this team has made its stamp on the game by playing the game as a team.

Miami has a lot to learn from their once-rivals. They play with heart and hustle, and they play as tightly as fingers on a fist. Riley's challenge now is not only to rebuild the Heat, but to launch them back into that lofty air only occupied with any consistency by the Detroit Pistons, the lone power in the East. What better way to do that than by imitating them - we will see them up close this evening.

If only for a brutal moment on their way into the playoffs and possibly another chance at a title.

Heat Fan Shutting it Down for the Season

Due to retinal scarring from watching too many games this season, I am afraid I will have to announce I am shutting it down for the rest of the NBA season.

Yes, my eyes have been literally burned with horrible images of turnovers, bad defense and missed shots. Yesterday's game against the Celtics damn near made my eyes bleed.

17 field goals made in their 88-62 loss. Well, a loss would indicate they showed up, but Miami never even seemed to make the flight. Blake Ahearn had 12 points. Need I say more?

Besides, if Dwyane Wade, Marcus Banks, Shawn Marion, Udonis Haslem, Shaq and Jason Williams are all out with injuries, then why should I watch and risk further damage to my eyes anyway? Oh, did I say Shaq? Whatever happened to that guy? He seemed to have disappeared after the 2006 championship - maybe Riley and Arison should put out a APB for him.

Oh, that's right, we traded him for Marion and Banks. Whom are both injured now...wow.

Well, I have to cut this short as I am using my eyes to aid myself in my meager typing anyway. I would say that this column will be missed but considering how badly this season has gone I am probably the only left, outside of Joel Anthony, Chris Quinn and Ricky Davis, that is putting anything into this season anyway.

Ricky Davis and Chris Quinn Are Miami

Shaq's stupid comments have lead to much discussion. I have been putting off commenting on his comments for a reason - others have been doing it while scrambling for a spotlight on the situation.

This is how it is with Shaq. He transcends the sport so much that even a little mumbling on his part can lead to a big "to-do". Well, it really is much ado about nothing.

Of course Shaq is going to bash the Heat. He, believe it or not, has a right to do so. And no, I am not talking about his constitutional right but rather his personal right. As a professional, he definitely overstepped his bounds by singling out Ricky Davis and Chris Quinn. Yet his frustration is nothing unusual here - most Heat fans would agree in a sense that some bad roster decisions were made.

The discussion calls for us to consider Shaq's perspective - what about his promise from Pat Riley and Mickey Arison about making a consistent championship run each year with the roster? The Heat had invested heavily in Shaq in that 2004 offseason by dealing away Lamar Odom, Caron Butler, Brian Grant and a draft pick and Shaq actually could have opted out and not returned to Miami if he so desired.

Miami took a risk. They saw it payoff in 2006. So did Shaq. It was argued that he was too old and fat and lazy and that he was incapable of helping a team win another championship. That is why the Lakers opted for Kobe over Shaq. They were mistaken at the time, but they are winning the war these days with the Lakers rising again and Miami falling back in the pack with Shaq's departure.

It didn't have to end this way. Riley made some bad decisions this past offseason but it was also Arison's fault in not letting Riley spend the money he needed to keep the championship caliber team stitched together for a few more seasons while Shaq's massive contract was on the books.

Maybe that is what Shaq is whining about. Maybe he had a gentlemanly promise with Riley that he thought meant he would be contending every year while in Miami - not trying to skate by on fill-ins.

Yet make no mistake - there is no one more Miami Heat these days than Ricky Davis and Chris Quinn. Both have been playing their hearts out in a season where the rest of the team has found numerous ways to quit - including Shaq. I think Ira Windeman said that best.

Shaq never gave this season a chance. He basically shut it down from the get-go. Wade did his best to try and put a face of effort on this season but you can't blame him for wanting to shut it down with the pain he endures both physically and mentally. His efforts are not adding up to wins which made it worse. And Shaq, meanwhile, was out in LA getting his "alternative treatments".

Shaq may have had an argument and professionally, he may not wish to disclose the entire matter but his criticism is well-noted. Still, when you are past your prime and relying on a young talent like Dwyane Wade to look good, you don't have as much credibility as you think you should to call out players like Davis and Quinn.

Both of them have something Shaq doesn't have anymore - heart, humility and desire. They don't need a giant chip on their shoulder to come out and play motivated each night. They do it because they just do. Shaq needs an adversary to get his big ass moving - he needs a Kobe, a Phil Jackson, a Pat Riley and now a Chris Quinn or Ricky Davis?

It is said that a man is defined by who his adversaries are. If that be the case, let all of mankind oppose Shaq as he has melted into a spoiled, whiny, egotistical has-been.

Too bad, too. Because I really liked the Suns and their style of basketball. I was rooting for the good guys like Nash and Stoudamire. And now I find myself in the same position that Lakers fans were in back in 2004 - they hate on Shaq for being Shaq. Still, to dis players like Quinn and Davis is low and reveals what kind of person Shaq has now become.

DLeaguers Auditioning Strong

In Kasib Powell and Stephane Lasme, the Heat have two strong defenders that can rebound and hustle. In Lasme, they also have one of the best shot blockers in UMass history - even more impressive considering that Marcus Camby is an alumnus.

The Heat aren't going anywhere these days, and with Jason Williams joining the MASH unit as recently as today, it just seems like this team is going to get younger and younger.

Consider it auditions for next season.

What Miami is doing is essentially this, looking for young players that can contribute next season. And they must be able to do so at a fraction of the cost. The Heat are shopping for value - after all they have Dwyane Wade and Shawn Marion under contract eating up over $30 million of the $58M in salary cap.

What the Heat are finding out is that Riley hasn't lost his touch in unearthing solid, young contributing talent. Joel Anthony is showing that he can block shots like a Zo, but his game at center is more favorably compared to a Ben Wallace. He is a tenacious defender and his ability to help defend with his shot blocking will help shore up the Heat's perimeter defense as guards will be less apt to slash inside with "Doc" ready to serve them a block party.

In Lasme and Powell, both 10 day contracts, the Heat get two more strong perimeter defenders that could help shore up the defensive lapses as well as help the Heat rebound better.

The departed Bobby Jones was a nice fit for the Heat and should get a summer invite, but Miami may have wanted someone with a bit more athleticism and an ability to make game-altering plays on defense. Lasme had 3 blocks tonight and has 8 in three games with the Heat.

The auditions are starting to work out. It should be an interesting summer.

Heat Signs Bobby Jones

Today the Heat signed swingman Bobby Jones to shore up their depth. The Heat waived Smush Parker and lost Dwyane Wade to injury to finish out their season and have an opportunity to look at a player they are interested in for the stretch. Jones, however, is signed to a 10 day contract (NBA rules permit two such stints before a team must decide to keep the player or let him go).

Devil May Care; Heat Don't

There is something very appalling about losing to a team by 20+ points. Then again, there is something even more sickening about losing to a team by 20+ points when you previously were beating them by 20+ points - in their own building.

And then, there is something just down-right disturbing about a team that goes through that, in the same game, and then doesn't seem to care about it.

Sure, Udonis Haslem, Shawn Marion, and others may care. But the rest of this team seems immune to it. Desensitized. Just another loss on the season - pile it on. Ho hum.

This might be the biggest challenge for Pat Riley to overcome as he pushes forward with the reclamation project.

Heat teams of the past had, what Riley refers to, as a culture of winning. Guys who knew how to win, expected to win, and would settle for nothing less than perfection. The biggest asset in this regard? Alonzo Mourning, who alone has exemplified the Riley era here in Miami. He was lost this season early on to knee injuries. Some suspected he was done, but in all honesty, because of the way he went out, he might actually want to come back.

Count that as a big blessing for Miami if he does. Because this team lacks a leader. Sure, Dwyane Wade is the star, the franchise. He has the commercials and the notability. And he no longer has to live under Shaq's shadow - which is quickly diminishing under the sun out in Phoenix. But Wade has to learn how to lead now. He has to go through the same maturation process most star players, on the verge of becoming great, must do. Kobe is showing you what that transition looks like on the other side coming out of the selfish, self-centered opposite end he once resided on. It split up Shaq and his tenure. Here in Miami, it is a much different circumstance.

Riley, as the architect, has to find a way to surround players that will compliment Wade's game. That process in underway. But another consideration must be to surround him with like-minded players; players who won't back away from a challenge but will fight and rise through it. Marion definitely is one. So is Haslem, although I still question his height. Who else on this roster would fit?

After this latest loss, it is disturbing to contemplate.

Yell at us.

Heat Scouting Getting Early Start?

With Miami's 9-44 record, there could be one interesting side effect - an early start on scouting for the draft.

Tonight, ESPN will be showing the Texas/Kansas State game at 8pm. Why is this important for Heat fans? Because it will feature one of the highest rated college players in the country, Michael Beasley.

Beasley is putting up excellent numbers for Bob Higgins at K-State. The 6'9"235lb freshman is turning heads with his game which offers quite a diverse set of skills ranging from drop steps to jump hooks to fadeaways. His range is quite good, hitting routinely from 25" and in. He might be a bit raw, but his game looks very advanced and mature for his age. His skill levels, on both ends of the floor, project to off the charts.

So, with the Heat's abysmal record, and Riley's stubborn coaching (almost on purpose?), the possibility of landing a talent like Beasley is becoming more and more a reality. So take heart, with each loss comes another ping pong ball. Let's hope it doesn't end up like Boston for us - in terms of the draft luck (but maybe in terms of landing a KG type?).

Yet with each loss, the Heat's scouting department is getting more and more entrenched on their objective - to find a young player that can help turn the Heat franchise around and support Wade's game. This draft will show the Heat to be overly prepared; and they will have their work cut out for them because teams like Portland seem to own the draft.

Riley Almost Pulled off a Big Deal

This is coming from the Horshoes and Handgrenades file. Because almost doesn't count.

Maybe it is his defense facing criticism, which is well-deserved, over failing to pull off a trade with expiring assets at the trade deadline. Nevertheless, Riley mentioned what sounds like a very good trade that should illustrate two things - both good and bad - about the Heat.

1. Riley is making an identity change and shifting this team into a future with a more diverse, up-tempo, perimeter based offense
2. The Heat don't have a whole lot of attractive assets to make a deal to help themselves out

Don't even get me started on the financial deadend they are at thanks to the NBA salary structure.

Riley almost pulled off a trade for Mike Miller with the Memphis Grizzlies. It was even rumored that Kyle Lowry was going to be included in that deal or even Brian Cardinal. So was Jason Collins. In the end, Riley said the Heat would have been taking on too much salary to make that deal happen, which to me seems almost redundant because you would be acquiring players that could give you a stable core for the future. You could always find a way to jettison the bad contracts later.

With Jason Williams and Ricky Davis, you have expiring assets. Their value is now practically zero because they do not produce very well on the court and their value was tied to their expiring contracts. And if Riley thinks he can pull off a sign and trade with those players this offseason, all one has to do is point back to this past offseason where Riley failed to do that with either James Posey and Jason Kapono, two players the Heat desperately miss. Which means, they actually had perceived value while Jason Williams and Ricky Davis do not.

So, Riley saying he couldn't get the Grizzlies to reveal their dream deal really sounds like he wasn't getting his dream deal. Perhaps Riley protest too much. But if he had pulled off a deal for Mike Miller and even Kyle Lowry, it would have set up the Heat to get back into the playoffs for next season.

It also illustrates just how far away Miami is from getting back to the postseason.

The Open J: Wade and the Art of War

Dwyane Wade must be feeling philosophical these days. Maybe it is the copy of Sun Tzu's Art of War that Riley gave him to read.

The Heat are on a 10 game losing streak - trying to replicate their 17 game losing streak obviously. That means they are 1 for their last 28. Nice. And how is Miami all of a sudden going to turn it around? Look:

"I thought Coach really came in and made a statement of no matter what our record is we're going to continue to do what we do, and do it better," guard Dwyane Wade said.

So, the Heat are going to play spotty, confused defense, shoot inefficient and ill-timed shots, while at the same time taking a long time to set up their offense despite having no low post scoring threat. Not only that, but they are going to do it better than they had before! Wow! What a brilliant revelation!

Now of course, I love D-Wade and everything he brings to the team. And yes, I am taking this statement out of context - probably. But this only exemplifies how lost this team is.

Riley pulls a schizo trade off by dealing Shaq for Marion - good. Then proceeds to sit on the rest of the plan which should have been:

• dealing expiring contracts for talented players of similar paygrade that could help the team form its new offensive philosophy
• and possibly deal Haslem and Smush Parker in the process to help the Heat upgrade their talent pool

Yet here we are - basically the same team that got us here to 9-43 and how is that going to change? By doing the same - but better!

That is like the U.S. foreign policy these days - we are going to fix things by doing the same but better! Katrina victims, fret not. FEMA has learned their lesson. Next time we will do the same - but better!

I mean it works for movies: Rambo, the same ol'tired storyline - but better! Ishtar - the same great movie - but better!

Really, if Miami wants to improve, it has to change the horse in this race. Riley couldn't afford to stand Pat on the trade deadline - this team needs an overhaul and by not pulling the trigger on something for Smush Parker or the expiring contracts of Jason Williams and Ricky Davis he set the Heat back. Or at least made his work that much harder.

Miami can't play defense against a JV girls team right now. And Wade is the biggest culprit. He couldn't guard some slob coming onto the court from one of those fancy seats next to the team's bench, let alone any NBAer coming off the actual team bench. But that is only symptomatic of the entire Heat team - save Marion and Banks because they are coming from a team, gasp, that actually plays better defense (that is pretty hard to imagine though: PHX plays better defense than Miami?).

Read closer Wade. Ask Riley to reiterate his point - because Sun Tzu would never have said to conquer one's enemy one just has to keep doing what he always did - but better! That mentality will never force a breakthrough of change, which this franchise desperately needs. They just sold out their biggest chances at contending for a title every season in the near future. They got back a very nice player in return, but don't have enough to fix things, let alone get back to the playoffs. Monumental changes are needed and frankly to read Wade's quote is laughable.

But hey, at least they aren't quitting. They are going to do the same thing - but better!

Meanwhile, young players like Daequan Cook are sitting on the bench while the rest of us wonder if they even have any future here. Riley needs to find out and stop playing guys who don't have a future here.

Nothing to Report

Miami didn't make a move at the deadline.

That is nothing to report - yet, we find ourselves reporting something.

Riley didn't pull off any more trades but instead stood Pat. I am not getting this.

Miami has very little financial flexibility even with Jason Williams and Ricky Davis coming off the books this summer because they are way over the cap. That is why dealing for Marion was a good thing in the sense that it allows Miami to be free of that contract that Shaq was holding over the Heat for another 2 more seasons.

Still, this has to be an illustration of how bad the NBA's financial situation is. They have money - they generate lots of money. But to have your salary cap at a paltry $58M (after this season) is ridiculous. You can't even afford gas at that cost.

I think the Heat missed out on an opportunity to really overhaul and reload. Sure, they will most likely get a good pick in this summer's draft but they won't have much else to work with in terms of improving the roster.

Eddy Curry Not on Heat Radar

There is a hot rumor that Riley is pulling the trigger on a three team deal that will send Eddy Curry to the Heat, Jason Williams and Ricky Davis to New Jersey and Vince Carter to the Knicks.

There are also reports that Riley is refusing any interest in Eddy Curry. Or even a wish that the Heat deal Williams straight up for Curry.



I think Curry would give the Heat a foundation for a half court attack - which anyone in the Association worth a damn will tell you a team needs in order to win a championship. And let's face it, to keep Wade the Heat have to compete for titles.

Marion and Wade could be the focus of the new, up-tempo offense. But they are going to have to find ways to score in half court sets, too. Curry, interestingly, gives the Heat the kind of numbers they got from Shaq (.549 FG%, 9.56 FTAs per 48 mins) but at half the price.

Curry is scheduled to make:

8.9 this season
9.7 next season
10.5 and 11.2 the following 2 seasons - but those are both player options.

Hey, he's only 26 and a change of scenery would do him some good. But a deal straight up for Jason Williams would make big sense for Miami. Still, the Heat have options to play with - but I still contend it begins with trading Haslem and with Kurt Thomas being traded to the Spurs, Haslem may have just got a bit more attractive to Orlando.

Discuss with us.

Trading Udonis Haslem a Good Idea

His quiet demeanor and his cornrows are a contrast.

So his where Udonis Haslem came from and where he is now.

Just like his photos from his Gator days and his current Heat days.

The guy has changed so much and turned things around in a big way - all of it with hard work and dedication. Which is why, now more than ever, the Heat would not want to trade Udonis Haslem. But it is also why he is needed elsewhere.

Haslem makes a good salary with the Heat, but is not going to fit in with this team. Much like in 2003-2004 when the Heat had a young, run-and-gun core, there won't be much of a role for UD. Sure, his yeoman brand of basketball is refreshing, often drawing comparisons to Heat great Grant Long, but with the Heat's new offense heading in the direction it is - despite Riley's warnings - Udonis Haslem won't be able to help much.

The Heat need speed. They need players who are able to make quick decisions and score from anywhere on the floor. Haslem has the ability to hit an open jumper with regularity, but his offense is also limited to being in the right spot for someone to kick the ball to him. Other than that, he has to score on cleanups and hustle plays - the kinds of situations where Haslem will find less frequent without a giant center to dictate the orbit of everyone in the paint. With Shaq gone, Haslem's game will be exposed - he is undersized, lacks length and as the main rebounding threat for the Heat he could be easily neutralized.

Orlando, however, is looking for a power forward and this seems to make sense for both teams. Stan Van Gundy coached UD when he was coming up in the Heat's house and is familiar with his game and work ethic. He knows his game and as a result, SVG could be pushing for Haslem as a target. The Magic are poised to make a big step forward - they just need a missing ingredient to tie it all together and it is precisely the kind of thing Udonis could bring to the Magic. He is a champion and a hard worker. He will sacrifice for the good of his team and teammates and could be a quiet clubhouse leader on a team where he will be able to forge his own identity. Also, his game would compliment Dwight Howard's much the same way as it did Shaq's.

For the Heat, they could target Carlos Arroyo, JJ Redick, or even Pat Garrity. Arroyo and Garrity have contracts that expire after this season - which gives the Heat even more financial flexibility (to go out and sign...say, an Elton Brand?). Plus, they could even audition Arroyo, an FIU grad and Miami resident, for their future PG needs. Garrity would offer an expiring contract - nothing more.

Redick would be an interesting target and could offer the Heat a young and cheap shooter with big upside. Of course, Otis Smith, GM for the Magic, is saying he is not dealing Redick - but we've heard that kind of talk before. Redick would offer the Heat another young, brash shooter to go along with Daequan Cook.

Trading Udonis would be bitter sweet but necessary. These days, the entire city of Miami seems to be dealing with losing their fan favorites, but it is a sign of change. It is inevitable, although not an enviable situation. If Miami is able to trade Udonis Haslem for some expiring contracts, they could free up another $6M+ in salary that could be spent this summer. It just makes sense. Or cents.

By the way, add Ira Winderman to the growing list of people in support of dealing Haslem.

Tell us what you think.

Wade Drops 14 in All Star Game; Heat Need to Deal

With his tired old body, at age 26, Wade reached down and found a way to run with the youngins. Shooting 7/12 on the night, Wade had 14 points and a huge block that was one of the night's highlights.

"D-Wade had the unbelievable block," said Lebron James, who now has the highest All-Star Game scoring average of 24.7 per game, with Oscar Roberston second at 20.5. Which brings me to another point - 22 shots? What is with the ball hogging, Lebron? No one likes that aspect of the game. He played 30 minutes and jacked up 22 shots. Thank God he hit 12 of them because otherwise it looked like a Kobe performance - just trying to manipulate the stats for self-serving ends.

In the end, the East got the win over the West. They avenged last season's whoopin' where the West devastated the East 153-132 in Las Vegas.

Heat Need to Deal

Thursday's trade deadline is quickly approaching - but will it involve another Heat deal? It seems that it the Heat are going to make the most out of their expiring contracts, they better do it now. Jason Williams and Ricky Davis are clearly not going to be in the picture for the future of this franchise. And for Riley not to get anything in return for their expiring contracts would be a mistake.

The situation has to be right. The Heat have to get back a player they think they could develop or who just needs the right situation. Usually this means taking on a bloated contract. The Bibby deal to Atlanta was at one time something the Heat were aiming to do; must mean Riley didn't feel right about it as it is doubtful the Hawks put together a better package.

This means that Udonis Haslem or even Mark Blount could be brought into the equation also. Both players have digestable contracts, and could provide valuable depth to teams looking to get over the hump in the playoffs. Haslem, with Marion in house, is not going to be a necessary part of the equation for Miami's turnaround.

If Shaq Plays, Is He a Liar?

Let's face it, it has been on all of our minds.

I remember when we first traded for Shaq, members were joining our boards and screaming Shaq is a cancer and he will destroy our franchise. They were obviously siding with Kobe and whether or not it was self delusion - to deal with losing the most dominant center of his era (if not all time) - remains to be seen. Still, we were not inclined to believe them just because we gave up a lovable, young nucleus in Lamar Odom, Caron Butler and Brian Grant just for the chance at winning a title with Shaq.

So we win the title, everyone is excited and calling for a repeat. "Uno mas" was more than just a chant to get Zo to stick with it and play another season. Yet, everything quickly fell apart. Some attribute it to a team with too many injuries - the championship starting unit did not play but a handful of games together after that magical 2005-2006 season and it was shut down at the start of this season when it was apparent a change was needed.

But was Shaq really the problem all along?

I have contended in the past that the trade for Shaq may have been too high - it cost us a very good group of young players but it also cost us the coaching talent of Stan Van Gundy, who basically resigned because Shaq was tuning him out and undermining his authority as coach (Gary Payton, too).

I am glad to see that I am not the only one thinking this way. In fact, some even want to use this as a way to call out Shaq. Our friends over at Sportech started talking about this recently pointing out Bill Walton's rant on Shaq.



Basically, is Shaq's injury for real or conveniently timed? Regardless, paying a guy $20M a season and having him play basically every other game is not helping matters. The Heat, out of necessity, had to deal Shaq and move on. The guy has missed 115 games over the past three seasons! And without major surgery.

It is intriguing though to consider, if Shaq all of a sudden is playing for the Suns and scoring 20 a game and putting in effort on both ends of the floor, what should the Heat and its fans think? In Shaq's defense, the Heat didn't have enough consistent scorers around him (outside of Wade) to really warrant taking the punishment each night. He definitely is going to be rejuventated playing with Steve Nash and his haircut, the jet-like Leandro Barbosa and a tough guy like Raja Bell. Not to mention he has Amare Stoudamire at his back.

Why wouldn't Shaq change his tune? Could we really blame him?

Tell us how you feel. Burn us.

Jermaine O'neal Next?

The Heat, in all likelihood, are not done dealing.

There are rumors for Mike Miller of the Grizzlies. There are still valuable pieces like Jason Williams and Ricky Davis out there to be taken (their expiring contracts would get a team off the hook of a big contract).

Then there is another option: Jermaine O'neal.

Tons of speculation has been passed around the internet as to where O'neal's next destination would be - as he currently rehabs his left knee. An apparent deal with the Nets (who are dealing everyone these days) is being left for dead due to concerns over O'neal's knee and his $44.3M contract owed him over the next 2 seasons.

Ira Winderman of the Sun-Sentinel has tossed out the idea of the Heat trading for Jermaine O'neal, but there doesn't seem to be much likelihood of that considering the Heat's financial situation - they have some flexibility, but why would they deal for a $44M contract when they just shed a $40M deal owed to another of the O'neal clan?

Join in the discussion.

Dorell Wright: Next Generation Power Forward?

Five straight games with double digit scoring.

Five straight games with 30 minutes or more.

Four of those five straight games he is shooting over 50%.

Sporting his baby mohawk, looking more like a dorsal fin, Dorell Wright is averaging 16 points and 8.3 rebounds on 53% shooting and 100% FTs. He is even 3/4 from three point range over his last two games - which coincides with the arrival of Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks.

There is no doubt that Dorell Wright's game is expanding. He has a solid handle, he can pass the ball and he is starting to develop a more consistent outside shot. If he can add a three point shot to his arsenal, he might be the most dynamic Heat player since Lamar Odom.

What is interesting to note is how the trade seems to be affecting Wright. One would think that Shawn Marion's arrival would dry up his playing time but instead it has helped to expand it. Some of that has to do with Udonis Haslem being injured, but also because of the injury Miami might actually start thinking about going and doing something more unconventional - and maybe moving Dorell Wright over to power forward.

Wright has been spending time on the floor with Marion and the Heat have been going with Mark Blount at center. Some would contend that Wright is not big enough to play power forward but he is 6'9" and 210lbs while Udonis Haslem is 6'8" and 235lbs. Udonis used to have a weight problem, Dorell Wright is the opposite. Very straw like.

Yet look at a guy like Chris Bosh. He is 6'10" 230 lbs and although only a year older, is putting up pretty good numbers. Dorell Wright is still growing. He shot up a few inches this past year and is still growing into his body - he hasn't reached his full adult growth potential yet. I know, sounds kind of weird, but at 22 the kid is still growing - like his game.

Wright has the wingspan to matchup with players taller than himself, but he also has the athleticism to chase after players much smaller too. He can also handle the ball a bit and Riley has toyed with the idea of using him as a point guard at times in the past. More importantly, Wright seems to be benefiting from playing with Marion and the offense is more suitable now to his style of game and development. When Haslem comes back, which may not be until well after the all star break, there may be a bit of a squeeze for playing time for Wright, but Riley could also deal Haslem. That, of course, would be an indication of the way Riley envisions things from now on.

But let's get back to the idea of Wright at power forward. Currently, he is playing small forward while Marion is at power forward but what difference would it make when Haslem returns? Wright could still slide in at either position to keep getting him playing time. The other thing to consider is, the Heat are high on Alexander Johnson and he could be used as a conventional power forward if the Heat actually did deal Haslem.

What makes the Heat really roll the dice and give them increased flexibility will be determined by Riley's daring in conceiving Wright at PF. If he can do that, then maybe the Heat will not only score more cap space, but they might even be able to increase depth in an area of need they desperately need it - point guard.

Essential Reading:

Wright Finally Settles In

Shawn Marion Promises Bright Future

Ray Bans? Panama Jacks? Blu Blockers?

Look, the future is so bright, I just might grab me a pair. Kim Jong Il has some, much be watching Heat games.

Why has the Heat's future been resurrected from one of a dilapidating old sorry site to a sleek, new, hip one? They traded Shaq away and got Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks. And so far, it has paid immediate dividends.

Banks has already started to turn things. He called the Heat slow. Old man Heat need to get young buck quick and they are doing so by getting rid of the old diesel engine for a high-octane variety.

"It feels like we're pacing ourselves for something," Banks said. "If we get out there and just lay it on the line, we can shock a couple of teams and get a different outcome."

But Banks isn't the only one feeling prophetic these days. Shawn Marion believes in the future of this team too.



You heard the man. "I'm happy to be a part of this Heat organization and we're trying to build for the future." We all are.

The Heat got back not only an legit all star at a position they were iffy on, small forward, but they also added a potential starter for another position they are desperately thin at - point guard. Both Marion and Banks will take what they learned in Phoenix and help the Heat overhaul their offense and tweak it up to a faster paced model. The fans here in Miami are talking about it more, and seem to be rejuvenated.

Tonight is just another point in case. The Heat lost, sure, 114-113. But it was to the Denver Nuggets who had to rely on a career night from JR Smith to survive. Smith's 8 three pointers propelled him to 28 points on the night, with which the Heat may have won this game and may have done so convincingly.

Shawn Marion did poor in another productive night with 23 points and 18 rebounds. Dwyane Wade, all of a sudden, is looking more like the play maker he was in the 2006 playoffs - having 10 assists and only 2 turnovers.

Not to mention the Heat, averaging around 77 shots a game, put up 100 shots tonight.

In fact, after a dunk from Marion, who was on the receiving end of a bounce pass from Marcus Banks, took a 42-28 lead at home against the Nuggets.

Overall, the team is performing better. Blount had 18 points, Wright dropped 19 and is showing himself to be not just an athlete that can score, but that can contribute with rebounds (8) and in other ways (4 assists, 2 steals, 1 block).

Remember, Udonis Haslem and Alonzo Mourning are currently injured and in street clothes. They were both at the game cheering on the team and getting very excited. Could this mean Zo might lean towards returning? Regardless, the excitement was visible and could be a barometer of what is going on within the organization.

This team may or may not win a lot of games to close out the year, but the future is actually going to be brighter as a result. They not only will have salary cap space to play around with (expect another trade before the deadline so the Heat can get a player they want without having to play the numbers game - possibly Mike Miller) but with their continued losing efforts they are actually stepping closer to getting one of the top picks in this year's draft.

So Enter the Matrix and watch as the Heat, with their true architect Pat Riley, turn this thing around very quickly.

The Debut of Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks

Well, I missed the debut of the two new Heatsters, Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks, on ABC today because I was at the game.



And hey, what can I say but WELCOME!

The way this Heat team is shaping up in the rebuild here is actually more exciting than any Heat team since...the 2003-2004 team.

Pat Riley has noted that he did coach a team, if anyone can recall, for 9 years that didn't grind it out from the halfcourt. They were known as the "Showtime" Lakers, and practically refined the run-and-gun offense to an art form. Some might say, it hasn't been duplicated since.

Well, Pat, you have a chance to revisit those days again. And it does start with Marion and Banks.

All Marion did in his debut was drop 15 on the Lakers on 6/13 shooting, grabbed 14 rebounds, had three blocks and 3 steals. Two of those 15 points came on this transaction from Dwyane Wade:



Notice the nice foul Kobe put on Wade. Wow, look at that, another high sticking from the poster child for passive aggressive NBA players.

But Marion provides that spring, that electricity that until now only Wade could provide. And what makes Marion such a God-send is that he can actually play defense, can help defend and - get THIS - can rebound! When was the last time Shaq had 14 rebounds? Heck, when was the last time he had three blocks? How about putting those numbers together in a game!

Now, the Heat will miss Shaq's interior presence on the offensive side of the ball, but considering that this team does not have shooters (yet, I still contend that Cook will be an assassin from outside...), adding Marion's unorthodox shot and defense will help in two areas of weakness for Miami.

Even more interesting is to watch Dorell Wright. He seemed to be playing more power forward today, and really pushing the matchup in the Heat's favor. His length and ability to move with the ball in his hands are tangible assets, but his money will be made once he can figure out how to consistently stick that outside jumper and get a little more physical defensively. He is progressing and watching him today work with Marion and Wade can make for a potentially exciting game to watch.

The defense has gotten so bad in Miami over the course of this season, that when the PA yells for the fans to scream DE-FENSE, even the fans have forgotten how. Today, however, against a tough Lakers team, the Heat did not looked outmatched on either end of the floor. Well, except for forgetting about Sasha Vujacic. Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks both looked comfortable pushing the offense into a higher gear and playing strong, man defense.

Banks, by the way, had 7 points on 3/6 shooting and 4 assists in 14 minutes. I expect we'll see those minutes increase as he gains familiarity with Riley's (new?) system. Banks' long arms, by the way, give him more upside defensively as he is strong enough to guard taller players on the wings as well.

The Heat looked better today and seemed to have fresh legs. I still don't know why Riley is averse to playing Cook, Daequan cannot be any worse than Ricky Davis and in playing him now, he gets valuable experience.

The Matrix Comes to Miami

In a much more subdued press conference than the over the top PR move the Heat had when they acquired Shaq, Shawn Marion, along with new Heatian Marcus Banks, was introduced with a simple "Hello everyone.".

Marion's broad smile seemed appropriate considering the aftermath of the Shaq trade. Bitter words have been spun about regarding Shaq's departure and his relationship with Pat Riley. To get a quite smile in the middle of this is almost as bold and as loud as when Shaq rolled into town with a semi-truck and water guns.

"The sky's the limit," Marion said. "Can't get any worse. We can only get better now."

And like that, the Heat's season is summed up as well is the trade. Shaq was not fitting in with this team and that fact became painfully obvious once the Heat lost Kapono and Posey and failed to replace their shooting abilities. (Most will not realize, however, that Kapono's game thrived when Shaq was injured last season and that he actually played better with Wade - but that is another discussion.) Shaq became too crowded and like a bull in a china shoppe. And at $20M a season, the Heat need better numbers from him - 17 and 8 is not enough for a player who is eating up about 34% of the payroll.

With Marion, they get a quiet personality who does his talking on the court. His explosive athleticism allows him to create posterizing dunks and game changing blocks. He can defend any position on the floor and he also has an outside shot with very good range - despite his disturbing, unorthodox shot.

There are some who are not high on this trade and see this as a salary dump. Shaq's low numbers and inability to stay healthy is what the Heat were looking to drop. They could have added by subtraction - the Heat have played 115 games without Shaq over the last three seasons. That is practically the inverse of buy one get one free. Considering the Heat's record over these last three seasons, and how dramatically things have taken a turn for the worse, this move had to be made.

"The Matrix" is exactly what the Heat need. Shawn Marion can rebound, can score, can defend, can help defend, and has a track record of staying healthy. And he was doing it before Steve Nash showed up, and he will do it while playing in Miami without Nash.

For those of you who are cynical, let's look at the numbers. Before Nash arrived in Phoenix, in 2004-2005, Marion was averaging 19 PPG, 9.3 RBs, 2.7 ASTs, 2.0 TOs, 2.1 STLs and 1.3 BLKs. He shot 44% from the field, 34% from three point range, and 85% from the charity stripe. Once Nash arrived, Marion saw his FGAs go down (from 17.0 per game to 15.9 per game), his FG% go up slightly (44% to 47.6%) and his scoring rise marginally (19.0 to 19.4). In other words, Marion became slightly more efficient. In fact, the only real strong improvement was in rebounds where he went from 9.3 to 11.3 a game with Nash - perhaps due to increased possessions and shots taken there were more opportunities to rebound.

How about with the Heat? With Dwyane Wade, we could expect a more dynamic offense as Wade has the ability to penetrate into the paint almost at will but he also has the ability to set up his teammates - a role he seems more comfortable in. Wade can penetrate and kick, much like Nash does and that is something Marion knows how to play off of.

On the defensive side of the ball, Marion's great wingspan allows him to be a very strong help defender - something the Heat have been lacking since Zo went down: a consistent shot blocking presence to keep defenses honest.

He is a hard worker, an ideal member of the community, and can help this team win now. Which actually, might not be a good thing considering the Heat are in an ideal situation for drafting one of the top 2 picks in the draft. Considering the Heat still have very little financial flexibility going forward - assuming Marion stays - getting a franchise player in the draft would put the Heat back into serious contention almost immediately. Now we will have to sort out who is going to coach this thing...Spoelstra?

Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks Arrive in Miami

Today the Heat held a press conference introducing the two newest members of the Miami Heat, Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks.

The deal became official on Wednesday at 5:40pm, but the players were not scheduled to be in Miami until today. Watch the press conference here.

As for the rest of the coverage with this story, there is a lot to chew on. Just take a peak at all of the following:



Pat Riley's spin on the trade:



Dwyane Wade's vision of playing with Marion:



And Tricky gives his analysis:



What a season it has been.

It's Wade's Team Now

What is interesting now is how the Heat will play out the rest of the season without Shaq. If the loss to Detroit is any indication, it might show the Heat to be a tougher team than at any other time this season.

So the Heat enter the P.S. phase - post Shaq - and move forward. Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks will join the team tonight or Friday and be ready to move. The Heat will continue to evaluate their team, but it sounds like Marion is not a short term plan.

One thing is obvious - the Heat are hitching it all to Wade.

"We simply looked at the big picture, where we are today, and we need to build around Dwyane," Riley said. "And everything we do now, moving forward is about building around Dwyane."

That will include Marion's and Banks' futures as well as the rest of the Heat's players. Any player considered to have a future must start with their ability to mesh with Wade's game. One of the biggest question marks right now has to be Dorrel Wright's future. Where will he play with Marion coming in to man the SF spot on the roster? I think his future actually is playing PF in a Chris Bosh-like role. The kid is still growing, has a very long wingspan and has the flexibility to take it outside on occasion and put it on the floor and take it to the hoop. He is athletic and can guard almost any position on the floor. He will need to bulk up some, but that is a part of him growing still. He is a very good friend to Wade, so if there is anyone with pull on this team, Wright is in with the right people.

But is Wade the right person for the rebuilding process? Should the Heat build around his game? By that, some have observed that Wade is not going to be a consistent big time scorer - he will have his 40 point games, but 50 points? 60? He lives off creating contact and bringing it strong to the hoop each night. Yet his style will get him into a higher likelihood for injury, and with a team building around his game is this a wise thought? Not to mention, Wade's defense is among the worst at the position - he has the ability, but he just doesn't bring it himself.

There is no question that the Wade we all saw in the 2005-2006 playoffs was the one to build around. Can we see that Wade again? He demonstrated himself to be really one of the only players in the modern NBA right now that could win games on his will alone. That, if anything, is the one elusive trait players must have to compare to Jordan. Some said Kobe was it. Some wanted to say Lebron. But Wade is the only player to really put it together - and it was in Shaq's shadow.

Now, can Wade raise the Heat again - this time on his own? Riley seems to think so. We'll find out.

Shaq Deal Done

So it is a done deal.

Shaq is gone. Apparently, pending a physical, the relationship between Riley and Shaq has strained so much that a deal was needed. That and the Heat would be wise to part ways with that $20 million white elephant contract.

Let's not get into whether or not this deal makes sense for Phoenix. As a Heat fan, who cares? This deal makes a ton of sense for Miami.

Shawn Marion is in the final year of his contract - he has a player option on the table for next season at $17M. Maybe he doesn't like playing in Miami and opts out. Maybe he does and keeps it. The Heat, however, drop Shaq's $20M albatross off the books which was scheduled for two more seasons after this one. Regardless of how Marion performs, this deal helps the Heat financially. Tremendous.

Marcus Banks is on the books for three more seasons around $13M total (4.2, 4.5, 4.7 respectively). If he can push this into a starting role, then it could be a valuable signing for the Heat. Well, trade, I mean.

Shaq's game has diminished. Or has it? If he passes the physical, then he is in playing shape. If he suits up immediately for the Suns, then it would be fair to say he shut it down for the Heat. Which his "people" have leaked he should do. Seems like Shaq was doing just that.


At the heart of this matter is the feud that may not be publicized. There has been observations that there is a feud between the two and this latest deal might be validation. Shaq was untradeable previously - then again, so was Marion. But given the rumors of feuds between Shaq and Riley - Riley telling Shaq to get off the court during a practice - this hurts the Heat franchise in another way.

It cost us Stan Van Gundy.

It cost us Lamar Odom, Caron Butler, and Brian Grant.

That 2003-2004 team, coached by Stan Van Gundy, may have had enough talent to win a championship. And they would still be talented enough to challenge for it today. They all liked playing in Miami. Caron Butler even named his daughter "Mia" after MIAmi.

Dwyane Wade, working in concert with Lamar Odom, Caron Butler and even Rafer Alston, may have been something to fear. We paid for that with the Shaq trade, which instantly put the Heat on the NBA map among the best franchises. A championship banner hangs atop of the AAA.

And here it is. Shaq leaves, with things busted in his wake. The warnings came from fans in LA. They said we would live to regret this deal, and although regret is still a far emotion away, Heat fans should not like the way the tenure of the Diesel fell apart.

And now the feud will be made public because the trade is going to go through. If not, then we got an even bigger mess to clean up.

Good bye Shaq. Hello Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks. Now, will we improve too much to not grab the top spot in the draft?

Shaq Traded?

Given the cost of fuel these days, it is no wonder that the Heat are trading away their main fuel source. After all, there isn't any heat being generated and it has a lot to do with their Diesel drying up.

In what is shaping up to be a trade deadline blockbuster deal, Miami could be sending Shaq to Phoenix to help the Suns get past the Spurs. The Miami Herald is reporting that the Heat would be getting back Shawn Marion and Marcus Banks, a point guard that Riley had his eyes on a few seasons ago.

If the rumors are true, Miami just turned things around financially. This would be a tremendous lift for the franchise. Shawn Marion can opt out of his contract after this season, saving the Heat $17.1M and paving the way for the Heat to sign whatever marquee free agent they wanted. Couple that with what is looking like one of the top picks in this year's draft, and the Heat could face an immediate turnaround.

Until this deal is finalized, if there is a deal in place, we at MiamiHeatwave.com do not wish to speculate. So, stay tuned...

Finally, a Win

And it is over, folks.

Ding dong the streak is dead. And so is the Heat's attempt at making history in its 20th season as an NBA franchise - which would have been bad history, of course. In it's inaugural season, the Heat had started their NBA lives with a 17 game losing streak. Just ask Ron Rothstein, he could tell you all about it.

Not sure he wanted to revisit that memory. And now, he won't have to relive it again as a coach for the Heat.

With a close win over the bruised and tattered Indiana Pacers, who were without Jamal Tinsley and Jermaine O'neal, the Heat ended their 15 game losing streak by erasing 11 point deficits and overcoming their own inability to consistently defend.

Can't say there wasn't any scares.

There were moments were the Heat looked like the old, championship Heat. Jason Williams had a couple of steals - a career high 6 in the game - and was able to toss a few exciting ally's to players for emphatic dunks. Dwyane Wade zipped down the middle of the paint for one of his signature exclamation mark dunks.

Everyone was getting into it and the Heat made plays to end the game rather than to end the game.

Dorell Wright acted like it was the final game of the 2005-2006 season:

"To tell you the truth, it felt like we really won the championship again,'' Wright said. "It's been a long time. It was a good feeling, and I'm happy it's over.''

He even launched the final rebound into the air a la Wade from the championship series against Dallas.

Relief? Yeah, you could say that. It might even pave the way for a new streak to begin. But don't bother the '72 Dolphins, they are a little preoccupied with something else right now. They have someone moving into their "neighborhood".

15 Straight Losses

Nothing could be more illustrative of the Heat's season than tonight's loss.

The thing lost in this losing streak is that for the most part, the Heat have been competitive and in every game. Sure, there were a few blowouts, but for a team battling with injuries and just an overall bad fit of personnel, this team has not backed down and has not quit.

Losing to the Spurs tonight 90-89, the Heat grabbed another loss. Sure, it is 15 straight now (not including that Atlanta loss?) but the numbers really don't matter in a season that is just looking to end. Yet, this loss tonight was a perfect illustration of the Heat's season.

There was a moment during the game where everything was going Miami's way. They were shooting the ball very well (in the 50% range) and were playing defense (no, really - they were!). Yet it all slipped away in the end: Udonis Haslem and Dorell Wright, battling for a rebound, accidentally tipped the ball into their own basket. Bruce Bowen, who had shot the ball, missed but got credit for the "made" shot. The sad thing is, there was virtually no Spur around to challenge for the rebound.

It just slipped out of the Heat's hands. And that was the difference in the game.

Of course, there is also the snapshot of Wade, at the end of the game, losing the ball as it was stripped from him by Bruce Bowen who gambled and poked the ball away.

Or there was the Heat missing almost half of their free throws (they shot .569 13-23).

Or the calls Ginobili was getting while seemingly hitching a bus from Old Cutler Road to Biscayne for a few possessions. That's ok, the officials weren't charging him for the rides and a few key baskets were awarded to the desperate Spurs who, boo hoo, had to travel til 5am just for tonight's game. At 8pm.

Sorry, professional millionaire athletes. The rest of the world will not shed a tear for you getting on a plane and flying somewhere only to have to work for about 2.5 hours about 15 hours AFTER you arrive.

There is something different about tonight's loss for the Heat though. In a way, they seem to be able to hold their heads high tonight. They fought hard against the champs of last season, even if they themselves are the champs of two seasons ago. The fact that Shaq is out again and the Heat found a way to compete is admirable.

Here's to the Heat getting lucky like the Spurs did when their Admiral was not able to lead them but instead the proud franchise hit rock bottom. They ended up with the #1 pick in the draft. The pick was used on a guy named Tim Duncan. The rest is history.

Maybe Miami can have a change of fortune like that. After all, without that draft pick, the Spurs are not hailed as a dynasty. Maybe Miami can get such an opportunity.

With a Rose, Heat Could Reload Fast

Don't be too sad, Heat fans. This year may be lost, but the future could be very bright.

Now, Miami is not tanking it like Boston did last season. They just can't defend very well and have no one supporting Wade. Not even Shaq. And Zo was lost for the season who is probably the real MVP on the defensive side of the ball if not for the entire team as it seems. Only 1 win since Zo went down.

Still, Miami is faced with getting a very high draft pick - most likely a top 5 pick at this rate - and with some extra cap space.

As for the draft pick, Miami needs Derrick Rose. This kid is electric and could man the point for the next decade in Miami - possibly convincing Wade to stick around, too. Both are from Chicago, too. Check it out.

Cavs @ Heat Observations

1. Why does Pat Riley refuse to play Dorell Wright and Daequan Cook consistently?
   
2. Has DWade really put on too much weight? I mean he looks thicker but that is muscle mass...still, seems like anytime a player does put on muscle mass he regrets it.
3. Shaq out clutching his hip. That means Wade has to bring his A+ game tonight. Maybe Shaq will clutch it enough to want to retire? I still think he can help us win another championship though...
4. Dang Lebron is bowlegged. Looks like he rode a horse here from Cleveland.
5. Wade used to be able to get away with jumping and passing - no more. Bad fundamentals are catching up.
6. Mark Blount!!!
7. Mark BLOUNT!!!
8. 28-27, Heat after 1. Lebron rattles out a three to end it. Stay tuned.
9. Shaq is baq - in the game.
   
10. Daequan really shines at times - he has such a sweet shot. He almost nailed a three point attempt put back dunk from Jwill. Sad thing is, even that wouldn't allow Riley to play him more.
11. Sorry...was eating fried chicken.
12. 42-41 Heat here in the 2nd...
13. I might be the only one watching this game...
14. Davis' shot is broke. And all the kings horses and all the kings men still can't fix that damn thing.
15. Charge on Lebron...this might be our night.
16. Where is Alexander Johnson!?
17. Wade spends too much energy trying to help this team win - that is obvious. The question is, does he have to? Why doesn't anyone else move without the ball?
18. Another thing about Wade - if he is spending all this energy in the third to keep the team in it, this is why the Heat fade in the 4th. Nothing left in the tank and they (Riley, really) has built too much dependence on him.
19. Miami is 0-7 from three point range. Can't help out Shaq or Wade.
20. Damon Jones has a mohawk. And for me to notice that means he is doing too much on the court against the Heat.
21. If Shaq isn't in the paint, there is no sense in trying to shoot it.
22. Heat showing signs of good defense against Lebron. Strangely.
23. Big Z has made a career out of cheap tip ins.
24. Wade still has the ability to draw FTAs. Say what you want about how his offseason slowed him down this season, he still has the ability to win games.
25. Like that jumper right there.
26. And that three.
27. And the streak stays alive for Miami - of making three point shots (129 straight).
28. 16 straight for Wade.
    
29. On that botched fastbreak, how did Lebron not get called for a travel?
30. Typical - Daequan makes it AFTER the buzzer.
31. 97-90, Cavs. 14 straight.
    

Pookie Not Enough

There is no reason why Wade should be in Barkley's fave five these days (thanks, TMobile, I expect that credit on my cell phone bill!) and certainly not with the way the Heat are playing. The Jordan comparisons, for now, can stop. Wade is not the one man wrecking crew he turned out to be in '05-'06. He isn't healthy and the only man to not realize this is Riley himself.

"I'm sick and tired of being asked if we have any other offensive options other than Dwyane (Wade)," the author of the book "The Winner Within" said Saturday night. "I say, "No, we don't.'"

Sure you do, Pat. You just choose not to see it.

And no, I don't mean Whaq, the 20M blackhole. Might as well be a statue of Shaq that we purchased because the real Diesel hasn't been around since after we won that championship. And even then there were weak parts to his diminishing game.

No, I am talking about Daequan Cook, Dorell Wright, and even Alexander Johnson. I am also talking about Mark Blount - yes, Mark Blount - and Earl Barron.

I am certainly not talking about Ricky Davis who all of a sudden has lost his shot. Maybe he should start yelling "fore" when shooting. Not "nachoooooo" like Gilbert "Crazy Eyes" Arenas does. Heck, at least people would be warned and there would be less injury to the spectators.

Cook, however, has shown flashes of being a star in this league. Curiously, everyone except Riley sees it. I mean, I know you drafted Jason Smith, but you did trade for Cook for a reason. You had a thought in there that was correct - get me more offense. Cook's brash young attitude may not mesh with Riley, but Smush he certainly is not. Whom we could use, by the way, but Riley doesn't believe in cornrows. The exception being Udonis and Ricky Davis - whom he had traded a few years back for precisely the same stupid rationale.

Look, I love Riley. The man is a great coach and a great tactician but frankly, when you are only focusing on one player and neglecting to explore other options simply because they are young is just plain dumb. Sun Tzu wouldn't do that. Nor would anyone else - especially the man who built the team. Might as well not sign anyone this past offseason and rolled with 8 players.

When the Heat actually played well during this 13 game losing streak, it was without its two best players - Whaq and DWade. And it was on the road against the Mavericks.

Why? The Heat played as a team and Riley coached a TEAM and not a player surrounded by supporting cast. This isn't a stiff action film where the cast is cardboard and formulaic just to support the notion of a script. This is a film that requires a bit more from its supporting cast and a bit less from its star lead. If Riley only let the team play and shifted his focus off of Wade so much it would achieve two things:

1) A team concept
2) Allow Wade to put out less effort, gain his health back and work within a team concept

In other words, Riley would have to coach and just possibly, this team might start winning again. Pookie ain't enough. Whaq's return certainly isn't going to help our defense and will in all likelihood clog up the lane as a statue with one arm frozen in the air calling for the ball.

Pookie ain't enough. And if Riley is sick enough of saying that, maybe he could go for the obvious and start playing his younger players and let them develop. Heck, this is all about next year.