ASK IRA: Will Heat make Max Strus a household name?
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Q: Ira, who do you see getting the Heat’s final roster spot? — Franklin.
A: The 15 players for the regular-season standard roster appear to be set, with all 15 under guaranteed contract: Precious Achiuwa, Bam Adebayo, Avery Bradley, Jimmy Butler, Goran Dragic, Maurice Harkless, Udonis Haslem, Tyler Herro, Kendrick Nunn, Andre Iguodala, Meyers Leonard, KZ Okpala, Kelly Olynyk, Duncan Robinson and Chris Silva. So if you assume the Heat keep Gabe Vincent and his two-way contract (although that knee scope would seem to be a concern), that brings it down to Max Strus or BJ Johnson for the other two-way contract. Based on how Erik Spoelstra utilized his rotation during the preseason, that makes Strus the overwhelming favorite. But remember, what happens by Saturday’s 5:30 p.m. waiver deadline does not necessarily mean everything will be locked into place. Strus could start the season as a two-way player and eventually be converted to a standard contract, as was the case last season with Chris Silva. Heck, he potentially could replace Silva among the limit of 15 standard contracts. There still will be time to swap out two-way players. The Heat have done that the past two seasons, with Matt Williams Jr. and Daryl Macon. So as much as you keep an eye on the Heat roster Saturday, keep an eye on the waiver wire, as well.
Q: So, Ira, whose rotation spot is KZ Okpala going to take? Could it be Kendrick Nunn, Kelly Olynyk or Meyers Leonard, or maybe take Andre Iguodala’s spot? — Edward, Sunrise.
A: Nothing like instant analysis based on a single exhibition. But if you insist on making judgements after two preseason games, then KZ Okpala well could claim the minutes of Moe Harkless, who has struggled to this point. As for the others you cite, I don’t think Meyers Leonard will have rotation minutes to be taken. And that could be the case with Kendrick Nunn, as well, in light of the depth of the Heat backcourt. As for Iguodala, I believe the Heat will attempt to keep his minutes down during the regular season, which could clear time for KZ, as well.
Q: Ira, I’ve changed my mind. After viewing the Raptors preseason game and talent depth of the Heat roster, I’m in favor of going after James Harden at the cost of Tyler Herro, Duncan Robinson and/or Kendrick Nunn in addition to Kelly Olynyk and Andre Iguodala for contract necessities. Max Strus, KZ Okpala and Precious Achiuwa will hold up the youth movement. — Paul, Miami.
A; Never change, South Florida.
