ASK IRA: How will it play out with Rozier when Herro returns for Heat?
Q: Ira, you mentioned last week how Tyler Herro and Terry Rozier play the same way and might not fit together. The shots against Cleveland were the same shots Tyler would take. I think you’re right. So who wins? – Michael.
A:It’s not about who wins or who loses, it’s about how to best make the pieces fit. At the ends of close games, especially in the playoffs, the playbook often gets taken out of the equation and shot creation becomes essential. Terry Rozier is a shot creator. So is Tyler Herro. There is nothing wrong with having multiple such players on the court at closing time. In fact, it is preferable, making the opposition pick their poison. It is at the other times during the game when the overlap can become limiting, preventing such players from getting into a rhythm. I would expect, if/when Tyler returns, that Erik Spoelstra largely would stagger the minutes with Tyler and Terry. It still can be a win-win proposition.
Q: Hi, Ira, Is there a problem between Tyler Herro and the team? It seems like a long time since a so-called minor injury has kept him out. – Tony, Port Saint Lucie.
A: I’m not so sure how minor the foot injury is, considering it has lingered since the preseason. And I think Tyler Herro deserves credit for being proactive by going ahead and taking an injection in the hope of expediting his return. This is not malingering. This is a player who very much wants to get back on the court. The injury and the pain is real.
Q: Thomas Bryant has played well. I hope he isn’t forgotten. – Felipe
A: He has played well. while also appreciating that this latest plying time has come because Kevin Love has been out. But by maximizing the opportunity, Thomas Bryant has restored confidence that if a more active backup behind Bam Adebayo is required, he yet could be up to the challenge.