ASK IRA: Should there be more at this stage from the defending Eastern Conference champions?
Q: Ira, 11-9 stinks for a team coming off the NBA Finals. Why isn’t there more coming down from the media? – Leonard.
A: Because with the injuries and the road-intensive schedule, it’s hard to get a grasp on what this team actually is. We barely have seen the trio of Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro together, and practically not at all with Haywood Highsmith as the starting power forward.What can the 2023-24 Heat become? Largely still unsure. They already have shown the ability to string together a seven-game winning streak, but they hardly have shown any degree of dominance. As is typical with this group, and particularly with Jimmy Butler, it comes down to how much they prioritize the regular season. Jimmy said after Saturday’s loss to Indiana that mediocrity could not be accepted. Now we are about to see if the play backs up that sentiment.
Q: Perhaps my eye sight or camera angles are out of focus, but I’ve not seen Tyler Herro at any of the Heat’s home games. Add in that the injury is taking longer than expected to return, the Heat faring better than expected in his absence, and Chicago’s possible fire sale, and I’m wondering if some type of move is afoot. He just does not seem as connected to the team and his teammates. – Brian, Fort Lauderdale.
A: Tyler has been at home games and in the locker room prior to games. Players often take such time on home game nights for treatment. Tyler also has been at practice. So, at this point, I wouldn’t point to anything nefarious. But I do believe it is becoming increasingly difficult for Tyler when many point to the team’s success in his absence, be it this season or last season’s playoffs. That can wear on a player. Let’s not make any assumptions until we see where Tyler’s game and where Tyler’s head are upon his return.
Q: Jaime Jaquez Jr. is already having an impact on the floor, actually on both ends of the floor. Compare that to Scoot Henderson, or Nikola Jovic, another player who is having problems finding his legs in the NBA. Why don’t more teams draft ready to go players like Jaime Jaquez Jr instead of drafting future potential? – Rodney.
A: Two different scenarios. With a one-and-done type of player, the hope is a home run, molding a superstar without the need or hope of instant gratification. That’s the Scoot Henderson scenario, with a player who came through G League Ignite. With a player such as Nikola Jovic, it is a case of drafting late in the first round and attempting to find a diamond in the rough. For many teams, a four-year collegiate who enters at 22 includes an acceptance of somewhat limited upside. So, no, Jaime Jaquez Jr. may never develop into All-NBA. But he can help this season, next season, and throughout his rookie contract. For some teams, pie in the sky is more tempting than bird in hand.