ASK IRA: Who will measure up on Heat’s growth chart?
Q: Is the Heat’s internal growth from guys like Bam Adebayo, Tyler Herro and Kendrick Nunn being just a bit overstated? The Heat played their last game just over two months ago, so it seems like most of the improvement would’ve come in the longer layoff before the bubble. We talk about Tyler improving defense/playmaking and Bam extending his range, but how much can these guys really add to their game in this short a turnaround? It feels like we’ll be seeing almost the exact same version of the Heat that we last saw. — Jim, Poughkeepsie, N.Y.
A: I agree that both made such significant strides last season — Bam Adebayo during the entire season, Tyler Herro during the Disney bubble — it could be asking a bit much to expect similar jumps. It is why I am surprised that some have Tyler as a leading contender for Most Improved Player. Didn’t he already make his jump? And as for Bam, he placed second for the award last season. But there remains room for growth elsewhere on the roster. Duncan Robinson still can round out his game. KZ Okpala can step forward. Kendrick Nunn can regain what he had at the start of last season. Heck, Max Strus could also hit the growth chart. There will be growth, simply because this is the Heat. It just might not come from the expected places.
Q: Hi Ira, do you think KZ Okpala is a good replacement for Derrick Jones Jr.? Do you think there is more upside for KZ? Maybe that’s why the Heat refused to match Portland’s offer. Your thoughts? — Carl.
A: The Heat didn’t match Portland’s offer in free agency for Derrick Jones Jr. because it was for more than a single guaranteed season. It is the same reason they lost Jae Crowder to Phoenix. But KZ Okpala is an intriguing replacement option. I’m not sure he possesses a singular skill to the level that Derrick did with his athleticism. But I believe there is a chance he could become a more polished all-around player. Derrick had limited scoring potential; KZ appears to have a move diverse menu in that regard.
Q: Go figure, Rudy Gobert signs a maximum, five-year contract averaging 15.1 points, 13.5 rebounds, and two blocks a game. Hassan Whiteside has slightly better stats and is lucky to get a deal with Sacramento. What does the rest of the league see in him that I don’t? — Joel.
A: The ability to work as a team player, to not become consumed by stats, to appreciate that it will be Donovan Mitchell, Bojan Bogdanovich, Mike Conley, Jordan Clarkson and perhaps even Joe Ingles who take the shots at the moments of truth. And then to be willing to pursue the rebounds or race back and defend the rim on the other end.
