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Ask Ira!

SunSentinel Heat Writer Ira Winderman answers YOUR questions about the team! You can read his latest comments below. To submit your question, e-mail here.

Please include your name, city and state with each question.

February 9, 2012

Q: With Mario Chalmers out, it means Dwyane Wade and LeBron James together less than usual. That might not be a bad thing with the overlap in their games. -- Marty, Plantation.

A: What it really shows is that it would be wise for Pat Riley to add another point guard, with Norris Cole the only option Wednesday with Mario out with his strained left hand. Jason Williams was at courtside Wednesday, but he's more concerned with "too many bogies" these days. Yes, Wade and LeBron can play the point, but do you need (want) them doing it in the first quarter?

Q: Do you agree with Oscar Robertson's comment that the Heat cannot win a championship until they have a 12-rebound, 10-point center? -- Yuma, Miami.

A: I agreed with it in Wednesday's first quarter, particularly when Dwight Howard already had a double-double by the end of the period. But, look, the Heat didn't have such a center last season and, ostensibly, stood within one fourth-quarter collapse of a championship.

Q: So we have Kendrick Perkins, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and now Oscar Robertson all taking swipes at LeBron. Wow, can the guy catch a break? -- Julio.

A: You know what? At the end of the day, he's LeBron James and they're not. Such are the trappings of super-super stardom. If people are noticing and talking about him, then he's exactly where he wants to be.

Q: Should we be worried about Norris Cole? Even the coaches didn't want him in the Rookie Game. -- Rolf, Pompano Beach.

A: No, he's still ahead of the curve for a player selected at No. 28 in the first round. His unexpected, early success skewed the expectation curve. There is no shame being ranked behind Ricky Rubio, Kyrie Irving, Kemba Walker and Brandon Knight. There also is plenty future motivation.

Q: Why cut Mickell Gladness and keep Juwan Howard, at 39 years old? -- Arnaldo, Miami.

A: Because you have no idea how much respect Juwan commands in that locker room. He is a stabilizing veteran presence, much the way Jamaal Magloire had been. Look, you don't play 15 players, and it's not as if Gladness was playing or truly showed enough to be viewed as a legitimate prospect. If he was, they would have kept him.

February 8, 2012

Q: Why did the Heat cut Gladness and keep Harris? This team needs size. -- Eduard, Miramar.

A: Because this team still has plenty of candidates at center with Joel Anthony, Eddie Curry, Dexter Pittman, and, to a degree, Chris Bosh and Udonis Haslem, and is not even utilizing two of them. No, keeping Harris made far more sense, since he could provide needed athleticism and speed should Dwyane Wade miss additional time due to injury. I found it interesting how Erik Spoelstra chose not to directly answer the question of whether Gladness could possibly be brought back on a 10-day contact once he clears the 24-hour waiver period Thursday.

Q: From my vantage point, with what we have seen so far of Norris Cole, he is a pretty good and fast point guard. Why do you think Coach Spo is not using him enough? -- Raj, Cheswick, Pa.

A: Because Mario Chalmers quietly is having a highly efficient season, as evidenced by Tuesday's 3-point shooting. Beyond that, some of the Heat's best lineups do not feature a point guard, such as the current Final Five of LeBron, Wade, Bosh, Miller and Haslem.

Q: Hey Ira, Chris Bosh and Joel Anthony for Dwight Howard? It works on ESPN's trade machine; will it work in real life? -- Mark, Miami.

A: Not over Otis Smith's (no-so) dead body. I would say it's safe to say that Dwight to an in-state rival would be a move of last resort, with Bosh or Anthony hardly addressing the void in the middle created by a Dwight departure, as the acquisition of, say, Andrew Bynum would.

Q: Why not use Lebron James at the five more, down the stretch in close games? He's their best center. -- Carlos.

A: And their best everything else, which just goes to prove that LeBron is a prisoner of his versatility. For a much as LeBron can accomplish, I would not throw him in the middle against Dwight Howard. Even greatness has its limits. Besides, lately he has morphed into the Heat closing point guard.

Q: Will the Heat go for Fesenko or Gadzuric or any other big center if we fail to get Przybilla? I think we need a big center who can defend, rebound and score come playoff time. -- Genesis, Miami.

A: Again, it comes down to whether you actually are going to play a center. You can have five centers on the roster, but it really doesn't matter if you don't actually play any. Any center added could wind up with as little to do as Erick Dampier and Zydrunas Ilgauskas did at the end of last season.

February 7, 2012

Q: Nobody is falling for Chris Bosh as a decoy anymore and our halfcourt offense becomes stagnant because of this. Is it time to utilize Bosh as an actual threat and not a last resort anymore? -- Jeremy, Plantation.

A: He is not a decoy; he's just treated like one at times. I like when Erik Spoelstra creates "Bosh time" during games, when Dwyane Wade and LeBron James are given a rest. He deserves it. But he is such a polished scorer that he deserves more. You almost wonder if more of a triangle approach could keep Chris involved more often.

Q: If the Heat pick up a player and need a roster spot, do they cut Dexter Pitman or Eddy Curry? Terrel Harris will be very necessary later in the season. -- Chet, Miami

A: I'm not sure about "very necessary," but I could see how if Wade goes out again then Harris could be helpful as insurance. I'd think first to go would be Mickell Gladness, with Dexter Pittman next. I don't sense a great commitment to any sort of future with Dexter.

Q: Eddy Curry hardly plays, supposedly because he is not playing shape. Why not send him to the D-League for a few weeks, where he can play himself into shape? -- Joel.

A: Because there are absolutely no centers in the D-League. He would be playing against power forwards, which would prove nothing.

Q: Do you think the Heat are really happy with Battier's performance so far? I know he made a few good defensive plays earlier this year, but he looks old and slow, and he has not shot well at all. It seems like they are determined to make it work with him regardless of how he performs. -- Jeffrey, Fort Lauderdale.

A: They will try to make it work until about the final 20 games, then they will set a playoff rotation.

Q: I didn't understand what you are saying with your tweet about Joel Przybilla. Are you saying that the Heat are showing they don't need a center? -- Moshe, Miami Beach.

A: What I'm saying is the Heat may be showing they don't need a center the way they currently are closing games, that Przybilla could be buried on end of bench like Erick Dampier was during the postseason and then even Big Z was. The Heat carried three insurance centers last season. They might wind up doing that again.

February 6, 2012

Q: I know LeBron James is a great passer but isn't he also a bad decision maker especially late in games? Look at what happened late against Toronto. -- Mike.

A: I agree that the fullcourt, home-run pass attempt to Dwyane Wade that led to a turnover with less than two minutes to go not only was foolish, but also something we've seen before from LeBron. For as much as Erik Spoelstra has stressed pace, there is a time and a place. Fortunately, Jerryd Bayless missed a layup for the Raptors and Udonis Haslem made two free throws after he was immediately fouled. I agree, that's when it would be nice to be able to hand off to a legitimate point guard and take a measured approach.

Q: I loved the balanced scoring in the 76ers' game. Don't you think the Heat are so much more dangerous when they spread the scoring around? -- Steve, Jacksonville.

A: As opposed to LeBron 30, Dwyane Wade 25 and another win Sunday against the Raptors? Look, that's how this team is built. If everyone is giving you 15, then you're probably not maximizing LeBron, Wade and Chris Bosh.

Q: Ira, my wish at this point is to trade Chris Bosh to the Suns for Steve Nash and Marcin Gortat. This gives us a center that can rebound and a true point guard. -- Darren, Miami.

A: So you want to trade in four more guaranteed seasons of Bosh for one season of Nash? Preposterous. Chris, when utilized properly, can offer relief points like few others on this roster, and like no other power player.

Q: Why is Erik Spoelstra not giving minutes to Eddy Curry every game so that he can get his confidence back? -- Yeo.

A: Because he's not being looked at as an every-game player. That's not what he was brought here to do. There will be moments when he will be given his challenges, perhaps Wednesday in Orlando against Dwight Howard.

Q: The perfect scenario (which is not beyond possibility) is both Steve Nash and Chris Kaman get bought out and sign with Heat. -- Martin, Plantation.

A: But remember how last season's the thought was Mike Bibby was going to be the answer? All of this is still a long way off, with nothing to happen prior to the March 15 trading deadline.

February 5, 2012

Q: The Heat have now gone full circle. The way they started the season with LeBron working from the inside and D-Wade scoring much more inside, I thought they would be pretty much unstoppable. Now they are back to LeBron playing outside. -- Ron, Royal Palm Beach.

A: It was interesting that when the Heat made their move Friday, it was with James playing at point guard. That is the blessing and curse of LeBron's versatility. Because he can do so much, he doesn't tend to stay in one place very long. But that also allows the Heat to offer a diversity of looks, with Friday's fourth-quarter lineup with James at the point clearly flustering the 76ers.

Q: Why was the game against Philadelphia considered the best game the Heat played this year? -- Stuart, West Palm Beach.

A: Low turnovers and fouls, high offensive efficiency, and it came against a team that had been dominant on its home court.

Q: Does the fact that Chris Kaman is being taken off the market increase the likelihood that he'll be bought out later in the season? If he's not traded, what good does it do the lottery-bound Hornets or him to finish out the year in New Orleans? -- James, Miami.

A: This is how the NBA ownership has operated with the Hornets, driving the price up whenever possible, as they did with the Chris Paul deal. I think there will be another round of trade solicitations before the March 15 trading deadline. In essence, the league has instead decided to showcase Kaman.

Q: Why would the Heat have offered a contract to K-Mart, unless they had entertained thoughts of him being our starting center? -- Wineman.

A: Kenyon Martin is many things, but a center is not one of them. He would have been insurance for Udonis Haslem, in case the shot didn't come around. I think Kenyon sensed that the role behind Chris Bosh and Haslem might have been particularly limited here, especially with LeBron James taking some minutes at power forward.

Q: Should LeBron enter the slam-dunk contest? -- Franky, Pompano Beach.

A: No. Because he would be playing for keeps if he entered, it could lead to an attempt that could even surpass his athletic means. It's not what he or the Heat need at this point. Frankly, amid this lockout-compacted schedule, players would be best served to skip All-Star weekend entirely.

February 4, 2012

Q: Mike Miller should play more than Shane Battier every night. Battier doesn't do very much offensively or defensively anymore. James Jones should also get some of Battier's minutes. -- Jeffrey, Fort Lauderdale.

A: So the Heat win one with Udonis Haslem and Miller closing and now Battier is some sort of horrible mistake? I think it will come down to the need of the moment. If it's defense, Shane has a decided edge over Miller or Jones. Again, this is all part of the versatility Erik Spoelstra spoke about during camp. Different folks for different strokes.

Q: Erik Spoelstra must be reading our e-mails by making Dwyane Wade the point guard at the close against the 76ers and sitting Mario Chalmers and Norris Cole. -- Todd.

A: Actually, he had LeBron James at the point, but I get your point. I think the fact that he waited so long to get LeBron, Wade, Miller, Chris Bosh and Haslem on the court at the same time speaks more about trying to make it work with a true center and true point guard, as well as getting a feel for Battier.

Q: Have Miami's issues at point guard been finally resolved with the duo of Chalmers and Cole? Both can be inconsistent at times, but nevertheless, it seems as though the Heat now only have one hole on the roster (center), and not two like last season. -- Eric.

A: I wouldn't say "solved" considering neither Chalmers nor Cole played at Friday's decisive stage. But adequacy apparently has been reached.

Q: Why do you answer dumb questions from supposed "Heat fans"? One guy asked about the Bucks really beating the Heat in seven games. Does he not watch basketball and does he not realize that good teams lose to bad teams all the time during the regular season? Playoff basketball is much different. -- Shah.

A: Because fans are emotional and questions after losses tend to come in a bit over the top. I'm sure the worries that followed the Bucks game are gone after the 76ers game, yet Philadelphia actually could be the tougher playoff test.

Q: Why didn't Eddy Curry get in if it was a blowout? -- Roy, Delray Beach.

A: First, because it wasn't a blowout. Second, because the 76ers went into the game without a center, with Spencer Hawes sidelined, Eddy basically knew he would have the night off. There's no need to have him running up and down during the scramble that is garbage time.

February 3, 2012

Q: Why is Coach Spo so against going to the post late in games? Isn't that why LeBron, Bosh and Wade spent the offseason working in the post? The fourth quarter iso offense is terrible and tired. -- Jason, Lake Worth.

A: Erik calls such post play "relief baskets", and I agree that such an approach would be a move in the right direction. Chris Bosh, in particular, deserves more of an opportunity in such situations.

Q: Dwyane Wade and LeBron James can play very effectively together when they have a point guard on the court who sets up the offense and when LeBron is playing his more natural position as a mid-post scorer/passer. They have problems when one of them is pounding the ball on the perimeter and effectively neutralizes the other one. -- Ron, Royal Palm Beach.

A: But each also needs the ball in his hands, so I'm not sure how the dynamic would work with a Steve Nash type, as well. Then again, the Heat lack the resources to spend big on a point guard. To a degree, each fancies himself as a de facto playmaker. It is part of their versatility. They brought Mike Bibby in last season and he rarely had the ball in his hands.

Q: Would the Bucks beat the Heat in a seven-game series. I feel like Scott Skiles is a better coach than Erik Spoelstra. -- Bob, Apopka.

A: I would doubt it, but Skiles certainly would make it uncomfortable. The Heat at the top of their game defeat the Bucks at the top of their game. But Skiles does seem to get the most out of his roster.

Q: Short of Chris Kaman getting bought out and signing with Miami, do you see anyone replacing Joel Anthony in the starting lineup this season? -- Kevin.

A: No, and that's the concern. At least last season, Spoelstra had the option of cycling through Zydrunas Ilgauskas and Erick Dampier as his starter. This season, the drop-off behind Joel Anthony is far more severe, which is surprising, considering he is Joel Anthony.

Q: Can the Heat teach Mario Chalmers not to foul when the team is over the limit? It seems like Mario gives away as many points as he scores. -- Ivan.

A: That should come with maturity, recognizing when to back off when the opposition already is in the bonus.

February 2, 2012

Q: This is what Pat Riley needs to say to the players: "I'm behind Coach, and unless you want my type of practices and conditioning regimen and body-fat analysis, you better follow more directions. Otherwise, you get a stricter regimen and with this condensed schedule, not so much fun!" -- Martin, Plantation.

A: Not going to happen. First of all, all Wednesday's loss did was snap a five-game winning streak. Second, that's who these players are, some of the best one-on-one players in the game. This is not an Erik Spoelstra issue as much as a LeBron James and Dwyane Wade issue. And they don't need to be beaten over the head with it. The video tape from Wednesday should work just fine. Figure on plenty of video and minimal court time Thursday in Philadelphia. And don't figure on anything from Riley unless it heads a lot further south than this.

Q: Ira, I know you disagree with me and will call me Dr. Doom, but the Heat are never going to win with these three guys. Why can't LeBron slam and jump over people in the fourth quarter, especially in the last five minutes? -- Tony, Fort Lauderdale.

A: Dr. Doom, what the Heat need to do is break the habit of so much isolation play. These players are good enough to play in concert, and yet they keep reverting to isolation play. It's about Spoelstra and the Big Three insisting on playing as a team. As for what LeBron can't do, simply look back at last season's Eastern Conference finals, when he did plenty.

Q: Don't the Heat have to have an interior presence at some point? -- Howard, Palm City.

A: It's funny, last year all Spoelstra spoke about were relief points from Chris Bosh. Wednesday, when they could have used those points, they went to everyone but Chris Bosh. Chris had a right to be upset after this one.

Q: Was this weight loss thing a good move for Udonis? -- Jim, Des Moines.

A: The odd thing is you'd think it would impact his rebounding, which is just fine. Instead, the shot has been off. He just does not look like himself this thin.

Q: I was watching the Bucks game and thinking that if you don't think we would have been better with Michael Beasley, then you hate the Heat, America and G-d him/herself. -- Ike, Miami.

A: Really? That, now? Really?

February 1, 2012

Q: Ira, in Monday night's game against the Hornets, in the second quarter coach Erik Spoelstra called for a switch from man defense to zone, and Dwyane Wade simply ignored it and did exactly the opposite. Isn't it clear that Spoelstra does not command the respect that a coach needs from the players in order to be successful? -- Kiki, Miami

A: Or could it be that he is willing to work with his players and respects their input? (Wade merely was given the forum to offer his opinion on the matter.) It's funny, at a time that a completely unsubstantiated rumor is going around that LeBron James is tired of Pat Riley's rigid style, when Spoelstra proves he is willing to bend, there is criticism the other way. The Wade/zone case is a classic example of how winning conquers all. I agree that if the same scenario came up during last season's 9-8 start, it would have blown up. The people who know best, including coaches and management types from other teams, will tell you that Erik is highly respected in the industry. If he ever was let go, he would land somewhere else earning far more.

Q: While I would expect the Heat to put no public pressure on Eddy Curry, do you think the Heat believe he is further behind in his readiness for Heat basketball than they originally anticipated up to this point? He is further behind than I anticipated and doesn't look like he will be a contributor until close to playoff time if at all this season. -- James, Miami.

A: No, they have been very up front about this being an experiment that could take a while, if it works at all. Expectations were never over the top, and they still might look outside for a center.

Q: I am sincerely hoping Miami isn't infected, as I suspect, by the New York mentality that your team and players are never good enough. -- Marcel, Miami.

A: Actually, much of the criticism comes from New York.

Q: Ira, is the Heat the greatest spurt team ever? If the game came down to which team could score the most in a 90-second span, would the Heat be the greatest ever? -- Andy, Miami.

A: Flat out score without worrying about the other team scoring? That would be Paul Westhead's Denver Nuggets.

Q: I see the Michael Beasley questions are back. Tell these folks that the only Beasley regret is the Bulls winning the lottery that year and getting Derrick Rose. -- Mike.

A: Which still keeps me awake at night.

January 31, 2012

Q: Ira, get ready for the deluge of Michael Beasley emails. I see he scored 34 Monday. -- Tony, Fort Lauderdale.

A: I am braced. And perhaps this is what Michael is, a sixth-man asked solely for instant offense nothing more. Good for him.

Q: I derive almost more joy from Beasley scoring 34 points than from the Heat winning against a terrible Hornets team. Almost. Why is it that we Heat fans have such a love affair with Beasley? -- Alejandro, St. Louis

A: Because Heat fans invested so much emotionally during a 15-67 season in order to secure that lottery pick. I think the pain endures because it could have been Derrick Rose. Michael is a great scorer, but he also needs to be the focus, something that was not going to happen with Wade and never would have happened with the Big Three. Put it this way, if Beasley made it work in his two seasons, there may never have been a Big Three and the Heat might have pushed harder for Amare Stoudemire at the 2010 trading deadline. So Wade-Beasley-Stoudemire or Wade-LeBron-Bosh, which would you prefer?

Q: What row is Mario aiming for on his alley-oops passes? Did someone offer him fifty bucks if he could hit the Johnny Walker bartender? -- Brian, Miami Beach.

A: Actually, the lounge is on the opposite side of the building where Chalmers threw his alley-oop to Dwyane on Monday night. Mario clearly has the alley-oop yips.

Q: Hey Ira, I've long been skeptical about Jon Barry's Heat "hating," but it seemed pretty obvious during Sunday's coverage. Assuming you agree he's a hater, might that be attributed to his brother's unfortunate stint with the team? -- Shep, Washington, D.C.

A: No, it's attributed to Jon trying to get people to talk about him, which is something that rarely happened during his career. And apparently it's working. It seems the greatest issue is Jon complaining about the hype he is receiving. Of course, much of that hype has been produced by ESPN, so I'm guessing Jon will threaten to re-sign soon.

Q: Why such a poor start Monday? -- Martin, Plantation.

A: Why not? Were you honestly expecting anything else in the wake of the Bulls game?

January 30, 2012

Q: Jon Barry and Chris Broussard on the ESPN NBA postgame show on Sunday were both critical of the Heat (despite the win). They said the Heat don't run plays in the fourth, rely too much on isolation, and have no movement off the ball, and, as a result, the Heat will be in trouble in the playoffs. Are they right or are they haters? Should we care? -- Stuart, Weston.

A: Should we care because they said it? No. Should we care because it's a legitimate issue? Sure. Here's the problem: Erik Spoelstra has shown that when he calls plays, they can be very effective. But LeBron James, at times, has a mind of his own, and Sunday there were plenty of those times. Did Spoelstra have better ideas? I'm sure he did. But such is the tightrope you have to walk with superstars. Just ask Mike Brown.

Q: I know Dwayne Wade had some nice assists and alley-oops against the Bulls, but other than that how can he be so out of it for the majority of the game? He needs to get over this mental block already when playing the Bulls. -- J.Z.

A: I don't think this one had anything to do with playing the Bulls. It had to do with playing Rip Hamilton. Rip got up and into him Sunday, and, apparently, into his head, as well. That's what Dwyane needs to get past.

Q: Derrick Rose had a great game Sunday until James was put on him in the fourth (a la last year's playoffs). Any way we see this earlier? I'm guessing fatigue is a factor. -- Daniel.

A: Yup. You can't always ask LeBron to do everything, even though he almost always tries. Playing him 41 minutes on the front end of a back-to-back is plenty.

Q: Why is LeBron still the one with the ball in his hands come the fourth quarter? No disrespect, he is the best player in the game for three quarters. When will this team learn they will only go as far as they go with D-Wade at the lead down the stretch? -- Curtis, Fort Lauderdale.

A: I don't think on a day he's 4 of 16 from the field you force the ball into Dwyane's hands.

Q: Another great job by Tom Thibodeau to have his team overachieving rather than underachieving. He's playing his young guys, goes to non-traditional lineups, gets his guys rest and still gets his team wins. Just imagine how good the Heat could be if they had a good coach. -- A.M.

A: Totally, disagree. Thibodeau pushed Derrick Rose through 44 1/2 minutes Sunday on the front end of a back-to-back set. Only LeBron played more than 36 for the Heat. And exactly what young guys are you talking about on the Bulls beyond Rose and maybe Taj Gibson? Omer Asik barely played.

January 29, 2012

Q: Hey Ira, I've been hearing a lot of analysts saying Dwyane Wade and LeBron James can't play on the court at the same time due to their similarities. Friday against the Knicks, they were feeding each other the ball. I know the Knicks defense isn't impressive, but will the display finally stop the conjecture that these two cannot play together? -- Sean, Pembroke Pines.

A: They've always been terrific together in the open court. The issue is the halfcourt offense, and the Knicks game offered little opportunity for such evaluation. Sunday's Chicago game could be a better test. Remember, last season LeBron had to carry the Heat in the playoff series against the Bulls, while Dwyane played a limited supporting role.

Q: Wade came back with fresh legs Friday. Do you think it makes sense for Erik Spoelstra to give LeBron, Chris Bosh and Wade a game or two off every now and then to keep them fresh? We saw the benefits Friday night of some time off. -- Stuart, Weston.

A: I think Erik's thinking is to give them time off when the Heat aren't playing, by bypassing more practice time than is typical. But I do think in March and April if there is any sign of fatigue, the Heat's stars could be given time off. It is why I think Tom Thibodeau, with his pedal-to-the-metal approach, still could have the Bulls No. 1 in the East at the end of the regular season.

Q: Those uninformed "fans" who said Heat are better off without Wade obviously were wrong. (They are probably the same fans who felt Dolphins would be better off without Dan Marino.) -- Marty, Plantation.

A: It's backup-quarterback syndrome in both cases. James Jones? Dwyane Wade? What's the difference?

Q: I assume the Heat are not giving up on Eddy Curry? -- Jeffrey, Fort Lauderdale.

A: You assume correctly. They also are not going to rush him or gift him playing time. Either he is able to make it back as a contributor or not. That clock is still ticking, but with so much season left to play, it hardly is approaching midnight. There certainly could be minutes Sunday against the bulk of Joakim Noah and Omer Asik.

Q: Here's a question I imagine you rarely get: Who has been your favorite player to interview on the Heat this year, and why? -- David.

A: Chris Bosh. He's always thoughtful and candid with his answers.

January 28, 2012

Q: Chris Kaman is buried on the Hornets' bench as they go young. Any chance he could be let go or would he be an option this offseason? -- Jim, Pembroke Pines.

A: The Hornets have essentially made it clear Kaman will not play until they find a trade. I think he would be a terrific fit here. The problem is Kaman is due $12.7 million this season in the final year of his contract. It's awful hard to get Heat contracts to match up to that when they don't include LeBron James, Dwyane Wade or Chris Bosh (and no, don't even try to go there). A buyout after the trading deadline might be the Heat's best (and only) chance.

Q: When is somebody going to have the courage to acknowledge that virtually every time the ball is in Udonis Haslem's hands, the Heat offense suffers? -- Michael, Parkland.

A: Only when all faith is lost. The Heat are not nearly to that point. Udonis, in fact, played well Friday, with the box score hardly an accurate portrayal. But it is curious that the Heat have reportedly been in contact with Kenyon Martin, who does many of the things Haslem does.

Q: Do you think the offense would be better with Bosh passing, and Wade and LeBron cutting to the basket in a motion offense from the high post? -- Doug, Naples.

A: Now that Dwyane is back, I think you will see Erik Spoelstra getting back to experimenting with the halfcourt offense, just as he did with the transition game to start the season. Dwyane's injury essentially short-circuited a work in progress.

Q: It used to be that Mike Miller would pass up open shots. Now he is open and shooting and no one is passing him the ball. Why doesn't Spo fix this? -- Jack, Sanibel.

A: Again, a case of the team having to do some re-learning now that everyone is back. We're always seeing changes, with James Jones moved out of the rotation Friday.

Q: Joel Anthony may have the worst hands in basketball. If I see LeBron throw him another perfect pass that he muffs I may scream. -- Saul, Boca Raton.

A: You wouldn't be alone. But I will say this, the kid truly tries. But Friday was another one of those nights that make you wonder if someone could perhaps offer more in the middle.

January 27, 2012

Q: The Heat seem to be a real mess in the middle. I don't hold much hope for Eddy Curry being the answer, either. Is this really what Pat Riley envisioned to go with the Big Three? -- Mike.

A: No, which is why Pat said at his 2010-11 season-ending session that center would be a priority. And then Nene, Tyson Chandler and Samuel Dalembert priced themselves out of the Heat's market. Wednesday again made it clear that Eddy has a long way to go. Joel Anthony lately can't do anything at the rim; Eddy and Dexter Pittman can't even get it to the rim. I think you're going to start seeing a lot more Chris Bosh in the middle, even if it means having to get Juwan Howard back in the rotation.

Q: How good could Bosh be if he played with an offensive-minded center? This must drive Riley crazy knowing the possibilities. Bosh could be unstoppable! -- Stu.

A: But among the reasons they can't afford such a quality center is because of Bosh's salary. It is a double-edged sword.

Q: Any comments on a recently published article stating that LeBron James will opt out of his contract if Pat Riley is still with the team in 2014? -- Stuart, Fort Lauderdale.

A: Anyone can write anything about what might happen in three years. It doesn't mean anyone has to pay attention. What happens between now and then in the playoffs will go further in determining LeBron's future than if Pat makes him wear a collared shirt on the team bus.

Q: While we are winning, I find myself missing Dwyane Wade on the court. When is he coming back? -- Jason.

A: Friday is possible. And it's nice to hear someone actually admit missing him.

Q: Will we see a compacted postseason as well, or will it be back to normal? -- Fernando, Cape Coral.

A: With the exception of one back-to-back, the league said it would be a typical postseason. In other words, if you survive the regular season you actually get to breathe during the postseason.

January 26, 2012

Q: You mentioned on Sun Sports during Sunday's halftime show that, like the last lockout, you could see an eighth seed beating a No. 1 seed. Can you really see, for example, the Knicks or Celtics beating Miami or Chicago? -- Jeffrey, Fort Lauderdale.

A: Absolutely. This is the type of season where a team's seed will not be reflective of its quality of play entering the postseason (sort of like the Giants in football). The Celtics and Knicks are prime examples of teams that could come together at just the right time. I'm not guaranteeing a repeat of Allan Houston and 1999, but you could see your share of first-round "upsets" this season by teams that find their groove late. Just because the Knicks are bad now doesn't guarantee they'll be bad later (after Phil Jackson takes over as coach).

Q: Looking at the standings, Boston and the Knicks could have the seventh and eighth seed. Which one would the Heat want to face? Thanks. -- Alex, Miami.

A: Again, we have to wait to see what either team looks like in April, particularly how the Knicks mesh with Baron Davis. As always, the preference should be a glad-to-be-there opponent, such as the 76ers were last season for the Heat, one that could claim victory by just competing.

Q: On paper, the Heat are better than last season with Shane Battier, and Udonis Haslem and Mike Miller being healthy, and with Norris Cole. But their record is not significantly better. It is because this compressed schedule is giving a false reading about the quality of teams? And it's title or bust for Spoelstra, true or untrue? -- Martin, Plantation.

A: It more likely is title or bust for this roster. And I agree that it is difficult to draw any conclusions based on this odd schedule.

Q: What has happened to Haslem's shot? Did he leave it behind with his braids? -- Martin, Weston.

A: Quick, get that man a weave!

Q: The Heat seem to be a real mess in the middle. I don't hold much hope for Eddy Curry being the answer either. -- Mike, Miami.

A: Wednesday again made it clear that Eddy has a long way to go. Joel Anthony can't do anything at the rim; Eddy and Dexter Pittman can't even get it to the rim.

January 25, 2012

Q: Do the Heat play down to the level of their competition? Chicago would have killed a team like Cleveland, even without Derrick Rose or Luol Deng? -- Jeffrey, Fort Lauderdale.

A: It does seem that unless the Heat can blast out to a lead, doubt begins to creep in. Some of that will go away with the return of Dwyane Wade. But halfcourt offense remains a concern, and the hope is that if they do get off to the races again with Dwyane that they don't forsake the need to get better in the halfcourt.

Q: How come Eddie Curry didn't get to play Tuesday? -- Stuart, Weston.

A: Anderson Varejao is simply too fleet for him. Getting up and down the court remains a concern with Eddy. It's one thing to run with Bogut; it's another to run with Varejao.

Q: The Heat keep splitting their back-to-backs. What's going on? -- John, Juneau, Alaska.

A: First, without Wade it clearly is more of a test. But that's what makes Wednesday against the Pistons meaningful. This is not the same "old" Heat as last season. They need to start sweeping some of these sets, because they're just going to keep on coming, including another home-and-home set Sunday against the Bulls and Monday against the Hornets.

Q: I know I'm going overboard with this whole Joel Przybilla thing, but we need to move fast on this. I know he can give us rebounds and blocks and can at least catch a freakin' pass under the hoop and finish. What do you think? -- Steph, White Plains, N.Y.

A: I think you have to first allow the Eddy Curry thing play out after all you have invested there, in terms of times and patience. But this Joel thing is getting a bit old, with no rebounds and two points in 20 minutes Tuesday.

Q: Gilbert Arenas? -- Miguel, Grand Rapids, Mich.

A: Works for me for the games when Dwyane Wade or LeBron James aren't available. But I don't think there are enough of those days to reach for such a signing. I think a team that loses a scorer to a long-term injury is more likely to move in that direction.

January 24, 2012

Q: After reading so much about LeBron James and Chris Bosh changing their games, why have we not addressed Dwyane Wade changing his game? Would he not do well in the Rip Hamilton/Ray Allen type of role with more consistent outside shooting knowing he could still get to the rack? -- Kennedy, Miami Gardens.

A: Heck no. Dwyane is an attacker and has to retain that element as a primary scoring weapon. He's 30, not 38. And he's a far more deft ballhandler than Allen or Hamilton. You want the ball in his hands.

Q: What do you think about Wade in an Olympic-style role? Coming off the bench he still led that team in scoring. -- Ron, Plantation.

A: Again, he's 30, not 38. Let's not get too overdramatic here.

Q: Has Mario Chalmers really improved his play at point guard? He seemed like two different players between the Philly and Bucks games. -- Adrian, Miramar.

A: Actually, and unfortunately, he seemed like the same old Mario Chalmers, wildly unpredictable with his play. It's almost as if he has to avoid playing to his instincts to play at his best.

Q: Do NBA refs have psychological testing before being hired? Does a team have any recourse for blatantly biased officiating? -- David, Miami.

A: I can say this: While there might be bad officiating, there is not biased officiating. Even in Sunday's whistle-filled theatrics at AmericanAirlines Arena, the bad whistle blew both ways.

Q: Shouldn't Eddy Curry play in every game and play a lot in order to get in shape? -- Roy, Lantana.

A: Sure, if you're trying to kill him.

January 23, 2012

Q: In the last few days we have seen the Suns, Bucks, Kings, 'Wolves and Wizards beat some of last season's playoff teams. Is parity, the league's big goal in the CBA, already here? -- Jack.

A: No, but exhaustion is. You are going to see several very good teams lose to several very bad teams along the way this season because of the churn of games. In many cases, the schedule, not the opposition, will be determining the results. It sort of seemed that way for the Heat on Sunday against the Bucks.

Q: After a tough week of playing the Spurs, Lakers and 76ers (and all resulting in wins), why not let Gladness, Harris, Pittman and Curry play most of the game against the Bucks? They have fresh legs. A letdown was inevitable. -- Stuart.

A: Because they're not good enough, and you play to win the game. And this was a home-and-home back-to-back, with no overnight travel. So let's not overstate the exhaustion factor. The Heat have yet to play their set of three games in three nights. It actually gets worse from here.

Q: Curry looked out of shape Sunday. -- Chet.

A: Just as Erik Spoelstra said, it is a process. There is a long way to go in Eddy's marathon.

Q: Ira, with Eddy Curry starting to get some minutes that were reserved for Dexter Pittman, is it possible the Heat send Pittman down to the D-League for more development? -- Alex.

A: At this point, I think sending him somewhere for conditioning is more important.

Q: Ira, there are rumors going around the league that Rasheed Wallace wants an NBA comeback. Is there any possibility the Heat take a chance on him? It would be a very good fit for the team. -- Paul.

A: No it wouldn't. Could the Heat use another big body? Absolutely. Do they need another big man shooting 3-pointers? I think they'd pass on that.

January 22, 2012

Q: Who told Joel Anthony to take up the slack for us missing Dwyane Wade? Nine shots in the game? Way to go. When he is aggressive, I think we are just that much better, don't you? -- David.

A: It helps when Spencer Hawes is sidelined and Nikola Vucevic is the only center the 76ers utilize until a few token late minutes by Tony Battie. And a few of those shots came on second chances off Joel's own misses. When he finishes does it help? Certainly. But a steady diet of Anthony offense might be asking too much.

Q: Why didn't Eddy Curry play Saturday night? The last minute and a half Coach brings Mickell Gladness in instead of Curry, why? Playoff time and this kid won't smell playing time. -- Johnny.

A: Because Erik Spoelstra doesn't need Eddy playing meaningless garbage time and developing bad habits. He needs to keep him in structure, against other wide-bodies, since that is the role he will have in the playoffs. I think you'll see him in there Sunday against Andrew Bogut.

Q: When Wade is out, LeBron James seems to look like the Lebron of Cleveland, when they won 60-plus games. -- Michael.

A: And never won a championship. Everything Dwyane-LeBron is about late May and June. Massive regular-season win totals are not the ultimate goal here.

Q: Ira, Shame on you! Why would the Miami Heat organization trade their franchise player who they drafted, won them their first and only championship, and represents the Heat with his humble and professional personality? The last time the Heat took in a big superstar from another team, in Shaq, he almost beat up Pat Riley and wrote a book about it. -- Sean.

A: Because this is "Ask Ira," and if enough ask, the question at least deserves a response. So are you telling me you would not trade Wade for anyone, regardless of the offer? Not for Kevin Durant? Not for Derrick Rose? Not for Dwight Howard? Sometimes the fun is in the debate.

Q: What adjustments do you think Wade makes when he returns? -- Jim.

A: I don't think he has to make any. But I would bet that from watching from the side, as a student of the game, he can get a feel of where LeBron wants/needs the ball and when to defer (and when not to).

January 21, 2012

Q: Why won't you breech the subject of trading Dwyane Wade for Dwight Howard? -- Tom.

A: Fine, consider it breeched. I would do it; the Magic would not. Orlando would need/want more than a 30-year-old superstar with lingering injury concerns. Also, among the reasons LeBron James is here is because of Wade, and it's not going to be easy to separate those two without going back on a lot of promises.

Q: After five games without Wade, would you now say the Heat play better "team" ball now than with Wade? -- Todd.

A: No. I would say they are starting to find their halfcourt offense and the 3-point shot clearly has made that offense crisper. You could also say they are playing less team ball, with LeBron doing more on his own.

Q: In the last two games there has been good ball movement and good play by the shooters. -- Wineman.

A: The 3-pointer opens everything up. With so many good 3-point shooters, such as James Jones, Mike Miller and Shane Battier, and with all three relatively healthy, you can see how that element opens up the floor. The 3-pointer should not be ignored, but rather reserved for those who shoot it best.

Q: The Heat are deeper (much deeper) than last year. A healthy Miller and Haslem is already two players deeper. So what is Steve Kerr talking about? -- Marty.

A: I'm not sure. I agree that Miller and Haslem being healthy automatically upgrades the bench. Then you add Battier and the energy of Norris Cole, and it's almost like having a new top four off the bench. And if Eddy Curry amounts to anything, that's a five-man upgrade. And that's not even counting James Jones.

Q: Occasionally during the season, the Heat have used a full-court press to some success. Do you think it would be beneficial to use it more frequently? Given that we have such athleticism, speed, and length, it would facilitate forcing turnovers and result in more easy baskets. -- Jeremy.

A: The issue is whether you want LeBron or Wade expending such energy amid such a compacted schedule. I have no issue with the approach with the second unit or as a change-of-pace to change momentum.

January 20, 2012

Q: It was great to see Eddy Curry on the court. He looks like he will be a big plus on offense. However, he could be a liability on defense. -- Stuart.

A: He always has been, but he's also never played in the Heat system, which essentially is play defense or perish. The reality is he already might be the Heat's best center. He has soft hands and his bulk can make a different. Putting him out there against Pau Gasol I'm sure was a shock to his system.

Q: This will go against most of the questions I see about Mario Chalmers, but is he starting to look like he belongs on this team? Obviously, anyone will take a backseat to the Big 3 in the starting lineup, but I think Chalmers is playing well. -- Mike.

A: He is making shots, which always makes him better. But he still is slinging the ball around in places where the ball should not go. He basically is an adventure. For now, his adventures are producing satisfactory results.

Q: These last few wins have felt too much like 2010. A lot of LeBron's aimless dribbling and long jump shots. Will they be able to get him to revert to the style of the first few weeks once Dwyane Wade returns? These last few games feel like short-term wins but long-term problems. -- Josh.

A: I don't see it that way. I see LeBron playing more as a facilitator, including facilitating his own game. He has the ability to do both. I also think this allows Dwyane's to go to school and see how he can best fit in when he returns.

Q: Is Wade's absence a blessing in disguise? -- Alexander.

A: Perhaps from the standpoint of having him rested for when the games mean more. But so many injuries (foot, calf, ankle) in such a short period have to raise concerns about season-long issues.

Q: Do you see Miami making any trades this season? -- Geo.

A: No. (Actually, I have no idea, but if I say no, does that mean people will stop sending trade proposals along the lines of James Jones-for-Rudy Gay?)

January 19, 2012

Q: We all know how gifted Eddy Curry is on the offensive end, but how do you think he'll do defensively in the Heat's system? You don't seem to agree, but I don't see what could keep him from eventually starting as long as he isn't a liability on the defensive end. -- Jack.

A: What we need to see, and what we haven't seen to this point in limited glimpses of Eddy during practice is his ability to run the floor, keep pace with the likes of Andrew Bynum and Andrew Bogut. If Eddy can't make it back on defense (a simple outlet should be good enough on offense), then his impact will be limited. But even with the snapshots at practice, the thought is he has to be an upgrade. Even at his weight he appears far more agile than Dexter Pittman.

Q: How much better would the Heat be if Dwyane Wade came off the bench? -- J.Z.

A: Well, at least you're not part of the mob trying to trade him. But you play your best players the most minutes. And you play the most minutes when you start. Get back to me when Dwyane's 35. At 30, it's a non-issue.

Q: As cold-hearted as it sounds, the Heat have an obligation to explore using the amnesty clause on Chris Bosh next summer to make a run at Dwight Howard, right? Bosh is a good guy, but the Heat need a beast in the middle more than a spot-up power forward. -- Brett.

A: A cold-hearted as it might sound, using amnesty on Bosh not only wouldn't clear enough space for the Heat to sign Bosh, but wouldn't even get the Heat much below the cap. The only way to utilize Bosh's money for Dwight would be in a trade. And, frankly. Orlando could do better.

Q: The Heat's frantic, ever-switching defensive scheme works for the most part, except it almost always leaves a 3-point shooter wide open. -- Craig.

A: Actually, the system works, it's just that the closeouts have not been nearly as efficient as during previous seasons.

Q: Hey Ira, roughly how many questions do you get per week asking whether Pat Riley will replace Erik Spoelstra? Please, add one more to your tally. -- Mike.

A: I get plenty of them and I file them in the same place as the ones recommending the Heat should trade Dexter Pittman for Dwight Howard.

January 18, 2012

Q: Mike Miller was brilliant Tuesday night. His rebounding and energy, not mention six 3-pointers were beyond encouraging, I hope he did not re-injure himself. We got very used to that look last year, as well. -- Chet.

A: That's always the big "if" with Mike. It's funny, he said after the game that he's not going for any more X-rays, because he doesn't want to know if anything is broken. But at some point, he's going to have to back off the recklessness. But you can see what he can add and why the Heat have kept him around, and upright.

Q: Is it possible that this new up-tempo attack wears the Heat out for the fourth quarter, or is this simply a matter of working up to game shape? -- Joel.

A: That's actually a fascinating question, because the Heat didn't play at pace in the first half Tuesday and appeared to have abundant energy in reserve in the second half. While you could credit that all to extraordinary shooting, it is interesting how with a more deliberate early pace the Heat were able to win going away. Just saying.

Q: I appreciate what Shane Battier brings to the game, but he looks so slow out there. Is this because he's still recovering from injury, or is it just age? -- Phil.

A: It's because the Heat's pace tends to make everyone other than LeBron, Wade and Bosh (and Norris Cole) look slow. Shane is a halfcourt player and will come in handy during the playoffs, when so much more of the play is deliberate.

Q: We need to upgrade at center bad. Joel Anthony is great for a spark off the bench, but he should never play more than 15 to 20 minutes in a game. -- Steph.

A: It's not as if the Heat didn't try in the offseason. But, again, the reality is when you spend that much on LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, there is only so much left over. And did you really want to spend the full mid-level over an extended period for Kwame Brown (the only way to get him)? The reality is nothing at center shook free in the Heat's price range.

Q: Do you think we should trade Norris Cole now that he has hit a wall and still has value? Think we can get back Beasley for him? -- Ike.

A: You folks are the best.

January 17, 2012

Q: When do you think Eddy Curry returns? Can he start vs. the Spurs? -- Wyatt.

A: Whoa, whoa, whoa. Just because there are concerns at center doesn't mean Eddy therefore is in position to come charging to the rescue. Honestly, I don't know if Eddy can ever start, because I'm not sure he is capable of the stamina required to start. But, more than anything, what Eddy has to show is that he can consistently run the floor. Because while his bulk might help against the likes of Andrew Bynum and Andrew Bogut, it won't mean much if his man can consistently beat him down the floor.

Q: Supposedly, the 7-foot, 2-inch tall Greg Ostertag is looking quite good in the D-League and is trying to return to the NBA. Would it be wise for the Heat to at least keep an eye out for him? -- Josh.

A: Is that the point we've reached, where it's Ostertag or bust in the middle?

Q: Is Spo overplaying Shane? He is a remarkable one-on-one defensive stopper, but not much on offense. -- Ryan.

A: Shane has been wholly average this season, save for some of his late-game defensive stops. He just appears unsure in the offense, too often deferring. Some of it could be the preseason quad injury that limited his time in practice. He clearly needs to find a greater comfort zone.

Q: You have always avoided criticizing the Heat coaching. Is that a policy or do you really think Erik Spoelstra is the best? -- Maury.

A: I've attempted to be evenhanded when some only want criticism. His team finished within two wins of a championship last season and mostly has played as an elite team this season. How much criticism do you want, considering other teams would snap him up in a heartbeat if the Heat were to let him go?

Q: Several Heat players often vocalize the words "you know" before completing thoughts. This habit is easy to break. -- Miles.

A: You know, I never really noticed that.

January 16, 2012

Q: Got a stat for you: Miami is 8-0 when James Jones takes a least one shot, 0-4 when he doesn't. Don't you think it shows how much better LeBron James and the team play when there's a shooter on the floor? -- Adrian.

A: Hmm, I looked it up and you're right. That's not to say that they won because James was shooting or even operating as a decoy. And James almost always gets his shots because of others, be it off dribble penetration or out of double-teams. What it says is that the Heat need a shooter on the floor, but that shooter might soon instead be Mike Miller.

Q: The Heat have the sixth seed in the Eastern Conference. Despite Wade's injuries, the Heat have a lot of talent. Is it time to panic? -- Stuart.

A: No. It's time to enjoy having eight of the next nine at home without a back-to-back until next weekend.

Q: Obviously, without having Miller or Eddy Curry in the lineup yet, it's difficult to know if this Heat team has enough to go as far as they did last year. I know it's early, but in a short season where injuries seem to be more pronounced, I wonder how patient Pat Riley is? -- Chet.

A: Look, we're talking 8-4, not 4-8. Judgment day for Erik Spoelstra does not come until the playoffs, or at least until the record drops below .500 at any point during the season.

Q: I don't understand how basketball analysts don't point out that LeBron never cuts. There's many times throughout the game when he just stands at the 3-point arc and stares at other players while they have the ball. -- Eric.

A: I do agree that lack of movement off the ball in the halfcourt is an issue here. Dwyane has actually gotten pretty good at it. But LeBron as a decoy is not even a factor, let alone occupying the weak side of the defense.

Q: This team made bad moves like signing Miller and Joel Anthony, but it couldn't see fit to keep Carlos Arroyo? He left with a top assist-to-turnover ratio and with the Heat with a tremendous winning record. -- Frank.

A: It remains one of the more confounding moves how the Heat have distanced themselves. I could see taking a shot with Mike Bibby, believing he was better. But Carlos would be comforting insurance right now, as long as he would accept that Norris Cole must receive minutes in order to develop. It seemingly is moot, with Carlos signed in Turkey.

January 15, 2012

Q: Do you think these injuries are just because of the compacted season or is Dwyane Wade just starting to show signs of his age? -- Jeffrey.

A: Except for the strained calf in the Clippers game that the Heat have yet to official acknowledge, the other two injuries were a case of a player stepping on his foot and Wade stepping on Al Harrington's foot Friday. So I don't think the lockout factors in. What I do think factors in is that with games coming so quickly, if a player sits out a week he could miss five games. The problem with the compressed schedule is players pushing to come back too quickly. The Heat have to avoid that with Wade.

Q: Can you explain how the Heat had a breakthrough game in Atlanta playing with hustle and determination and then played out of sync and looked confused (especially in the fourth quarter) on the rest of the road trip? What happened between Atlanta and San Francisco (Golden State)? -- Stuart.

A: A clearly defined plan of who was in charge of the offense. In Atlanta, it was Chris Bosh, with Wade and LeBron James out. In New Jersey, it was James, with Wade still out.

Q: Where does Bosh go for most of most games? He isn't soft; he is missing in action. He is the one player on the team that could really make a big difference in the halfcourt. -- Ron.

A: Last season, the Heat used to have "Bosh time," when Chris played without either LeBron or Wade in the lineup. It tended to get him more involved and it carried over when the other stars re-entered. I think they need to get back to some of that. But the other players also have to keep him engaged. When they did that at the start of Friday's second quarter, he was very active and very successful.

Q: James Jones need more minutes, as the best pure 3-point shooter on the team. What do you think? -- Ruby.

A: I think the Heat are doing everything possible to make it work with Shane Battier, who has been too deferential on offense and has had more lapses than expected on defense.

Q: Ira, I think the Heat will go deep in the playoffs. They have the talent to win it all. Unfortunately, none of them have the attitude that Magic, Larry, Jordan and Kobe have. Those guys would bring it every night. -- Juan.

A: I think Wade and LeBron "bring it" every night. I'm just still not sure they do it in the right way, in a way that advances the team as well as their own games. The return to so much isolation with little movement off the ball is troubling.

January 14, 2012

Q: You don't consistently beat good teams without a defensive presence in the middle or an offensive presence there, for that matter. -- Wineman.

A: But you do it with Dexter Pittman in the middle, a player who couldn't even find his way to a single rebound in his 15 minutes Friday? Until Friday, the faith in Joel Anthony seemingly was enduring. He would block a few shots, change a few others, and continue along his path of upgraded rebounding and ball-catching. Now he's not big enough to compete against legitimate big men? Did he shrink when we weren't looking? Look, was Joel Anthony ever the long-term answer? No, but he was as good as it got. Dexter Pittman is not the answer. In many ways, Eddy Curry looms large.

Q: So Miami's offense is only effective when the opposing team turns the ball over 30 times and isn't quick enough to get back on defense? Yeah, that's a dependable strategy for the playoffs. -- Rita.

A: I think Erik overreached. As I've written earlier, this reminds me of those times when Pat Riley, while still coaching, would threaten to "bring this thing to a halt" when his team was running into mistakes. This team needs a boot camp in halfcourt basketball, and about something more than isolation sets for LeBron.

Q: Where has this "new and improved" offense disappeared to? -- Jake.

A: Scouting staffs in the NBA catch up in a hurry. Opponents have caught up. And even when the Heat were flourishing in transition, there were telltale signs of doom with the halfcourt offense.

Q: I expect LeBron's post game to show up on milk cartons by tomorrow morning. -- Morris.

A: It certainly has not been on display west of the Rockies.

Q: Are we [really, really bad word]? -- Al.

A: No, just 8-4 and in a rough patch. I agree that this is nothing like that start of last season (yet).

January 13, 2012

Q: It's still early in season and I'd rather the Heat mess up now (and fix it) than later (when it's too late to fix). Right? -- Marty.

A: Exactly. Remember, this is just the third week of the season, which means in a normal season we'd be in mid-November. Of course, mid-November was when the concerns surfaced last season. Then again, that didn't turn out too bad for the Heat, did it? Like you say, it's better to unearth and address flaws while there is ample time to address them. And I think that's what will happen, that Erik Spoelstra will "adjust" his way through this.

Q: I agree with you, Spo will figure it out. But I can't help feeling this team should be way more consistent by now. -- Chet.

A: By now? Eleven games in? Again, the calendar is creating amplified concern. If these games can become teaching points, then gains have been made.

Q: I know we missed a ton of foul shots and that is the only reason why we lost to the Clippers, but that fourth quarter felt like the Dallas series. -- Gordon.

A: Many of the fourth quarters have felt like that lately. To a degree, it makes little sense to play one style for three quarters and another for the fourth. It will be interesting to see if they can keep the pace up in the fourth, or whether they attempt to work more halfcourt earlier in games now.

Q: OK, so you were right on Norris Cole. Not that I agree or think he should not play, but when he hits this rookie wall he has now clearly hit for the past three games, there has to be veteran help to spell Chalmers. -- Julio.

A: I just think Norris settles in as a change-of-pace speed guard, and there's certainly nothing wrong with that. But, man, the kid mostly has eyes on the rim, and boy does he ever like to shoot. He doesn't exactly settle down a team upon entering.

Q: First Dorell Wright, now Caron Butler. All the ex-Heat players are killing us. I hope we don't face Earl Barron soon. -- Peter.

A: Fortunately, there are no former Heat players on the Nuggets roster. But Mike James will probably get the Heat next, now that he's with the Bulls.

January 12, 2012

Q: It's no surprise that this team's struggles and weaknesses started showing up since Spo stopped going to James Jones, Dexter Pittman and Terrel Harris. Our team's strength is in our depth. Also, Shane Battier and Joel Anthony combine for 53 minutes and offer minuscule production. That can't happen any longer. Minutes have to be spread out to other guys. -- Alex.

A: And they will be once Mike Miller gets back and Eddy Curry gets into shape. Don't overstate Pittman and Harris. They would not play for most other contenders. This team will have greater depth with Miller because of the versatility he delivers. But it's still about LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh getting it done.

Q: Why not James Jones in close games, to space the floor to allow the Heat to get to the rim and to hit a timely three? -- Marty.

A: I agree. At least with offense-defense substitutions, particularly when the Heat needed a three late against the Clippers. I simply don't get it. If there is one player who can come in cold and drain a three, it's James. I think they just so want to make this work with Shane Battier in those situations.

Q: Something is not working with letting Wade and Bosh out first, then having LeBron rest in the fourth and bringing him back for the end of the game. Shake something up Spo. -- Amiram.

A: I think he will, just as he did last season. Erik will work through several permutations in the search for the right formula. The good thing is the Heat can continue winning amid such experimentation.

Q: We lost two games because of free throws. What is going on? You can't win a championship that way. -- Abe.

A: The Lakers did with Shaq.

Q: How many e-mails do you get a day for "Ask Ira" and how do you determine which ones to answer? -- Daniel.

A: Right now there are more than 1,000 waiting to be answered. Honestly, I take the first five I come across that are worthy of response or a pithy answer. But I also never consider any that are written in all caps or so incoherently that it takes added effort just to clean up the question. Crisp, clear, concise and on-point move to the top of the list.

January 11, 2012

Q: LeBron shying away in the fourth quarter is a huge concern. The Heat don't have such a big window for championships with Wade turning 30. -- Moshe.

A: Look, the worst thing you can do is overreact to a single regular-season game. But when it rekindles bitter memories, it also can't be ignored. There has to be a better approach than saying Mario Chalmers was open. Mario Chalmers? Mario Chalmers! No, this was not comforting, not at all.

Q: What if Spo changes his substitutions and has LeBron rest the end of third but play the entire fourth? Might that help get him in a better rhythm at the end? -- Adrian.

A: At this point, you have to consider anything and everything. I'm just not sure having LeBron more fatigued at the finish is the answer, either.

Q: What happens to Miami's post plays at the ends of games? It seems to me they're there at the start and disappear at crunch time. -- Rey.

A: A very good point. If LeBron is truly committed to that aspect, then it has to be a game-long commitment, not just during the low-pressure portions of the game.

Q: Somebody might want to guard the opposing team's best 3-point shooter, don't you think? -- K.J.

A: Agreed. The closeouts Tuesday often were halfhearted, of the hand-waving variety. They had the look of team that had gotten drunk on success.

Q: What is with the Heat's free-throw shooting? -- Mike.

A: I rarely go there because it's such an individual thing, but Wade's shots continue to look way too flat.

January 10, 2012

Q: When and if both Mike Miller and Eddy Curry are cleared to play and become part of the active roster, who do you see as the two inactive players for most of the games? -- Will.

A: It will vary, and still could include Curry at times against teams that play up-tempo and small. Clearly it could be Mickell Gladness or Dexter Pittman, and almost assuredly would be one. Juwan Howard and Terrel Harris are other options. With Wade and James both active, and Miller back, it would severely limit Harris' opportunities.

Q: I read your article on the Heat's need for a veteran point guard, and I couldn't agree with you more. We have a ton of wing players, but we're terribly thin at point guard. -- Michael.

A: I just think it's a matter of balancing the roster. I've gotten a lot of feedback about how both Dwyane Wade and LeBron James can play point guard, and there is no question they are the Heat's best finishers in such a role. But should Mario Chalmers miss a game, I'm not sure that Norris Cole is the best complement to Wade and James in the starting lineup. It just seems that a veteran point guard (perhaps in a trade with a going-nowhere lottery team) would make a very good roster even better.

Q: The Heat played a three-overtime game and Joel Anthony only got 18 minutes. What gives? -- Joe.

A: Joel is a nominal starter, someone who allows Erik Spoelstra to get into his rotations. Based on what we saw during the post-up session following Monday's practice, LeBron James may be this team's best center.

Q: Do you think Cole is/has become too much of a showboat? -- Ernie.

A: No, I think he's a kid who Erik Spoelstra has told to play fast and push the tempo. Sometimes speed can be confused for flash.

Q: Ira, the players' schedule this year is brutality. But they charter and take bubble baths. Are you really chasing them all over America via commercial airline and taxis? -- Jesse.

A: First, I'm trying to get over the visual of Dexter Pittman and Eddy Curry taking bubble baths. But, yes, I again am in chase-and-pursue mode and they haven't eluded me yet.

January 9, 2012

Q: Ira, the Heat are leading the league in assists per game. LeBron James and Chris Bosh seem to have slightly improved, but the Heat moved to the league lead in assists very quickly. Erik Spoelstra deserves some credit, right? -- Dylan.

A: It's about more than assists or pace or rebounds. It's about Erik getting different combinations to play well. For all the talk of how Erik is winning because of the talent, consider the job he did in Atlanta without Dwyane Wade and James, or the success in the two other games without Wade. It's like Pat Riley not getting recognized early in his career because of the Showtime Lakers' talent or even Phil Jackson during most of his tenure.

Q: What's the timetable on Eddy Curry? -- Steven.

A: They're taking a really long view. The way Spoelstra is talking, it sounds like All-Star break. My sense is they want to see if Eddy can make this work, and only then will they put in a post offense for the center, since it's obviously not something they run with Joel Anthony, and Bosh tends to score more out of the mid-post.

Q: You keep on speaking of Norris Cole as if he's not a rookie due to his four years spent in college. That doesn't change the fact that he still has to adjust to the pro game. -- Zak.

A: What I've been trying to say is he at least is ahead of the curve of most rookies. In a way, he reminds me of Mario Chalmers, as a rookie with a confidence level somewhat ahead of his current skill set. That is not always a bad thing.

Q: Although not an immediate issue, why wouldn't paying the luxury tax to keep the Big 3 together be reasonable? -- Jack.

A: To be honest, the tax wouldn't impact the three as much as the talent that could be signed to play around them. LeBron, Wade and Bosh have to recognize that they will have to carry even more of the load in the onerous tax years.

Q: Two years ago it was the "energy bus." Last year, a "Band of Brothers." What is this year's selection for Heat players from coach Spo? -- Todd.

A: Nothing yet. Usually it's something that develops over the course of the season. But the "Band of Brothers" quotes are now affixed to the sides of the entrances to the locker room at AmericanAirlines Arena, in red block letters.

January 8, 2012

Q: I've always had this idea that the Heat's scouting staff were lacking. With the exception of the obviously talented prospects, such as Dwyane Wade, Caron Butler, Michael Beasley, Miami has never really been able to find diamonds in the rough (besides Haslem). Has there been an emphasis on scouting lately considering the selection and signings of Norris Cole, Terrel Harris and maybe Mickell Gladness? -- Anthony.

A: I think more than anything, it's the new collective-bargaining agreement and the realization that if you're going to have three top-tier contracts with LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh, then you had better be able to find cheap talent. The Heat appear to have succeeded in that regard. Harris had his moments again Saturday night.

Q: It's great to know the Heat's young players can indeed play. In a couple seasons they can be part of Heat's rotation or be used as quality trade chips. -- Marty.

A: It's interesting you use the word "chips," because it's one Pat Riley uses in discussing the currency needed to make trades, as he did with Caron Butler in the Shaquille O'Neal deal. The problem is basketball doesn't have a farm system, and it isn't always easy to develop players while also playing to win. When the Heat haven't been in win-now mode, they have been largely successful with such projects.

Q: I recently took a look at the Heat schedule and we play the Eastern Conference lottery teams three times and the playoffs teams four times. And in the West, they play the better teams twice, and the rest only once. What's up with that? -- Eric.

A: Television, television, television. They pay the bills, and after the lockout, they wrote the schedule. It's interesting how many of the previously scheduled television games from the 82-game schedule remained in place.

Q: Would the Heat be interested in Jeff Green? -- Robert.

A: Sure, but even after rescinding his contract due to the heart irregularity, the Celtics have stood at Jeff's side. I'd think they would get first crack next summer.

Q: Do you think not having a normal offseason and only a week of training is detrimental to the health of the players, because I can't remember seeing so many injuries? -- Stan.

A: Absolutely, just like in the NFL after its lockout. The lack of access to trainers and training facilities is an undeniable factor, and something the NBA should have had the forethought to address.

January 7, 2012

Q: I know it's early and every team will have to deal with injuries at some point along the way, but do you think the Heat are really concerned about getting the number-one seed in the East? -- Jeffrey.

A: I think it'll be a fight to the finish with the Bulls, but my sense is that it is more important to Chicago, to prove they won't be intimidated. I don't think Erik Spoelstra will necessarily push for the No. 1 seed, but I think the Heat's talent will get it there, anyway. I do think Erik will consistently err on the side of caution when it comes to injured players, such as what he did Thursday in Atlanta and what might happen Saturday in New Jersey with Dwyane Wade and LeBron James.

Q: So you don't think LeBron or Wade are going to play Saturday, either? -- Phil.

A: I would not be surprised if they also sat out against the Nets, considering the Heat have the next two days off before playing Tuesday at Golden State. In fact, I'm not sure that Monday isn't one of the most important days of the season, when they can have a full practice with nearly a full roster, with Mike Miller expected to make that his first practice.

Q: Did Erik Spoelstra and the Heat have a change of heart regarding the youth on the team? It looks as if Spoelstra has been more open-minded to playing the young players. -- Will.

A: I think circumstances have dictated the approach. If he had eight healthy veterans, he would go with eight healthy veterans, perhaps with the exception of Norris Cole, who is somewhat of a veteran considering he spent four years in college.

Q: Why is everybody so hard on Bosh? Name a better third wheel in the league. He understands the game, plays great team defense, has a pretty jump shot, doesn't complain when he doesn't get the ball. -- Steve.

A: That's the point, the context. He might be the best No. 3 in the league, or at least right there with Ray Allen or Kevin Garnett, depending on how you view the Celtics, or Tim Duncan. But he is often cast as an equal part of a Big Three, which is a bit over the top, considering LeBron and Wade will be Hall of Famers one day.

Q: Was Pat Riley right all along about Mario Chalmers? He really had a breakout game against a good (not great) Atlanta team. -- Jeffrey.

A: Let's give it a bit more time. Mario still can be wildly erratic.

January 6, 2012

Q: Amazing. -- Jeffrey.

A: Wasn't it? In the 24 years I've been covering this team, that has to be among the most impressive victories. It's one thing to win with LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. You're expected to win every one of those games, no matter the opponent, no matter the venue. But when you see kids come through like this, when you see Chris Bosh step up to the challenge, Mario Chalmers rekindling memories of his Kansas magic, Terrel Harris come out of nowhere, it's a special night. I'm sure there were plenty of others, but that was one of the most impressive showings I can recall over these past 24 seasons, right up there with what Rex Chapman and a depleted Heat roster did against Michael Jordan and the mighty Bulls.

Q: Before the Hawks' game, I was wondering why Norris Cole was not the starting point guard. After that poor, turnover-filled outing that he displayed against the Hawks, I see that he is clearly not ready to be a starter on this team. -- Roosevelt.

A: He is a change-of-pace guard who still must mature. By contrast, Mario Chalmers showed Thursday night he is capable of some very special moments

Q: With the shortened season and the whole win-or-die stigma, how much of a challenge is it trying to develop a rookie point guard in Norris Cole? -- Taylor.

A: Apparently, not much. The key is that Norris was a four-year collegian. He arrived mature in his personality and his game. Had he been a one-and-done prospect, I don't think the transition would have been nearly as fluid. But Thursday showed there still will be growing pains.

Q: Who will have the bigger impact for the Heat this year: Eddy Curry or Mike Miller? I'm not a very optimistic person, but I think the table is set for both to come in and play well. -- Mike.

A: The likelihood is Miller will have it; the hope is that Curry could have it. With Miller, it's all a bonus, considering the Heat's perimeter talent. With Curry, it could be huge, considering the Heat's lack post play from their centers. He is a big, skilled body who would be embraced in the rotation.

Q: Could Wade and James have played Thursday, since they were not inactive? -- Jed.

A: Technically yes, because the Heat only needed to deactivate two players. But the courtesy is that if a player is not in uniform, he does not play and the opposing coach does not make him shoot free throws if a player on his team is injured and unable to go to the line.

January 5, 2012

Q: Could Atlanta be for real this year? They certainly looked like it when they played the Heat and now they're playing again. -- Jeffrey.

A: The Hawks are what I call this season a "continuity" team. They have been together a while, know what they want to do, especially on defense, where their zone is nothing more than an extension of the switching man-to-man utilized by Mike Woodson. With the lockout-compacted schedule, teams that returned mostly intact, such as the Heat, Thunder, Bulls and Hawks should find themselves at a decided advantage.

Q: I'm beginning to think that Dwyane Wade is a real pain in the rear. He can't hit free throws, turns the ball over on a regular basis, and is hurt multiple times per season. -- David.

A: And 29 teams would jump at the opportunity to deal with such issues. Your glass isn't even half empty, it's bone dry. Dwyane carries far less baggage than many superstars. And he isn't along in getting nicked up, just ask LeBron.

Q: It seems that Steve Nash isn't going to win anything with the Suns. My guess is he will ultimately ask the Suns for a buyout. Unless a contender's point guard gets a season-ending injury, Miami should be in the driver's seat. -- Marty.

A: Except that's what many said before about Baron Davis and Chauncey Billups. The reality is that for everyone who thinks everyone wants to land with the Heat, there still are plenty of exceptions. Steve's pale complexion might not do well in the Florida sun.

Q: I still feel the Heat need a big man. If Eddy Curry makes it and stays in the lineup, then we become unstoppable. -- Chet.

A: Hmm, so Eddy Curry makes them "unstoppable." I'm not sure even he knows he has that power. Besides, they looked pretty unstoppable without Curry or Wade on Wednesday night.

Q: All it took was Joel to be put on the All-Star ballot to find his offense. -- Todd.

A: And now he's making a run at being the NBA's best Canadian center.

January 4, 2012

Q: Mario Chalmers needs to learn how to and when not to throw a lob. He is going to get someone injured one day. In Monday's first quarter, he threw a lob to Dwyane Wade that had he actually gone for it he would probably be out for the year. 'Rio is frustrating to watch play. He is our Antoine Walker of point guards.

A: You might be leaning toward hyperbole, but a ban on Chalmers alley-oop passes might not only potentially save the health of the Heat's high-fliers but also those seated in the front row. Virtually every attempt is an adventure.

Q: Do you think Erik Spoelstra can do what has never been done in the NBA before: win a championship playing small ball? I think the Heat need to get back a more traditional lineup and quit fooling themselves. -- Al.

A: They don't have much choice. Dexter Pittman is not nearly ready, Joel Anthony is limited and Eddy Curry is not in shape yet. I wouldn't necessarily term a lineup that features Chris Bosh, Udonis Haslem and LeBron James as "small ball." If this were Norris Cole, Mario Chalmers and Dwyane Wade on the floor at the same time, that would be another story.

Q: Why is it that every free agent the Heat bring in not named LeBron or Bosh can't shoot? Seriously, Mike Bibby, Mike Miller, Shane Battier. It has got to be stage fright or superstar fright. -- Moshe.

A: Or not being able to deal with being so open and otherwise not even touching the ball. Being a shooting specialist is not for everyone. James Jones can touch the ball three times an entire game and make three shots. So can Eddie House. Not everyone can do that. Battier did show signs of coming around on Monday night.

Q: Ira, so what are the chances that this Heat team gets the MVP award (LeBron James), Rookie of the Year (Norris Cole), Defensive Player of the Year (Dwyane Wade), Most Improved Player (Chris Bosh), Executive of the Year (Pat Riley) and Sixth Man Award winner (Udonis Haslem)? This sounds far-fetched but surely is a possibility. -- Matt.

A: Two points: First, the only thing they want to "get" is the 2012 NBA championship. Beyond that, for all your far-fetched hopes, I find it curious you leave out Erik Spoelstra as a Coach of the Year option. Beyond LeBron and MVP, that might be the most likely individual award the Heat otherwise receive consideration for.

Q: As bad as the Heat are doing, are they gonna make it to the playoffs? -- Bud.

A: "Ask Ira," the official home of doom and gloom (and, of course, never-ending Michael Beasley questions).

January 3, 2012

Q: I think that with teams knowing LeBron James and Dwyane Wade aren't going to shoot the 3-pointer that it takes away a threat. You've got Mario Chalmers, James Jones and Shane Battier who are the regular 3-point shooters (and sometimes Norris Cole). Chris Bosh 0 for 3 on 3-pointers against Atlanta? It's a crime he even took those. I'd take Wade or James any day on a 3-pointer before Bosh. He's just not a 3-point shooter. -- Moshe.

A: As I blogged, I think the whole Bosh 3-pointer thing is over the top. You have to be a threat as much as someone who occasionally makes one. No one is stepping out on Chris, they're just not. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with a squared-up 3-pointer by James or one of those attempts where Wade steps into the 3-pointer. The Heat are going to be in situations where they will need LeBron or Wade to make 3-pointers.

Q: Why is Wade playing? It's clear that he's injured and he looks like he's lost some explosiveness. And obviously he's not playing well for the most part, so there's no point in playing him. Spo has really mismanaged Wade and his injury. -- Alex.

A: The Heat are insisting there is no injury. But he clearly has not been himself in two of the past three games since getting hurt in Charlotte.

Q: It hurts me to say it, but with DeMarcus Cousins wanting out of Sacramento, we need to send Udonis Haslem over in a package. Thoughts? -- Steven.

A: Not unless you want some sort of work action from Dwyane Wade. Look, Cousins is intriguing, but I'm not sure a team playing as well as the Heat would dare move a rotation piece in such a transaction. Now, something with Mike Miller, Joel Anthony (who could be replaced by Cousins) or someone else toward the end of the bench would be another story. After getting Haslem to return for a below-market contract, you can't just banish the guy to Sacramento.

Q: Is Eddy Curry or Dexter Pittman our next Ike Austin? Riley has such a knack at resurrecting the lost careers of big men. -- Paul.

A: Eddy Curry doesn't need to be the next Ike Austin, he simply needs to be the Eddy Curry who had his moments earlier in his career with the Bulls and Knicks.

Q: Regarding the punitive luxury tax in 2013-14: If the Heat win a couple of rings (I get to wish, I'm a fan), I think that the Big Three may just be willing to take less money to stay together. -- Roland.

A: First of all, the higher tax starting in 2013-14 won't impact James, Wade and Bosh, but rather the Heat's ability to surround them with supporting talent. Now, at the ends of their contracts if they want to take a little less, that might help. But that's also five years down the road.

January 2, 2012

Q: In a 66-game season in 120-plus days, what is your assessment as to Spoelstra's management of players' minutes thus far? -- Rey.

A: For the most part, they've made it easy for him, by blowing out to early leads, albeit with a few late-game stumbles. So far, no player has gone as many as 38 minutes in a game, which is exactly what you want. Of course, Monday against the visiting Hawks is only the second back end of a back-to-back this season. Essentially, Erik's players can create their own time off with good behavior.

Q: Why don't the Heat consider using under-used players like Terrel Harris and Mickell Gladness? With the crunched schedule, the more players that play, the less wear and tear on the Big Three. -- Gus

A: Because the Heat have enough quality depth that they don't have to reach for the neophytes. Even beyond the starters, Spoelstra still has Shane Battier, Norris Cole, James Jones and Juwan Howard, let alone when Mike Miller and Eddy Curry return. Depth should not be a concern. Getting players such as Battier into a rhythm is far more essential.

Q: With Eddy Curry working hard and seemingly motivated, I believe his scoring and rebounding (albeit limited, but better than Joel Anthony) will be a big boost to this team. -- Jack.

A: Agreed. But as with so many players who have missed time and battled conditioning issues, we won't know until we know. Eddy has been about promise and potential much of his career. He essentially has reached the sink-or-swim phase of his career.

Q: I know it's early in the season, but I'm concerned about our zone offense. Aren't you? -- Julius.

A: No, because at this point the Heat have the luxury of working through such issues and still winning. Practice time is limited this season, but they'll have it figured out when they need to have it figured out.

Q: Would it make sense to trade Mike Miller for Mike Beasley? At least we know what we're getting with Beasley. I'm not sure if Mike Miller ever comes back around to pre-injury form. -- Jonathon.

A: This is posted here just for those who think I've stopped getting Michael Beasley question. It never stops folks. Never.

January 1, 2012

Q: Whose minutes do you think Mike Miller will take away when he returns? I think that everybody in the rotation has been playing well, but my two guesses are Mario Chalmers and James Jones. I think, logically, it would be Chalmers because he is the most inconsistent, and the no-point-guard lineup is still lethal on offense and defense, but Spo's history tells me it will be James Jones even though he is more consistent in his role. -- York.

A: I agree that James Jones likely will lose his scant minutes. I'm not as sure about Mario, simply because they will need a point guard on the floor at times to defend the position, and Norris Cole still has his hot-and-cold stretches. If Shane Battier doesn't start hitting shots, that could be another issue. But I also think Mike will have to earn his minutes. It is not a given that he gets regular rotation minutes.

Q: Has the changing in the guard already begun? -- Howard.

A: No, and there is no reason for it. Norris Cole is a wonderful change of pace off the bench and Mario Chalmers is providing the 3-point shooting needed in the starting lineup. Why would anyone change the starting lineup when all the Heat are doing is winning?

Q: You seem to think the idea of playing Dexter Pittman is patently absurd by your comments on the subject. What is patently absurd is playing a clearly over-the-hill Juwan Howard, and a clearly reached-his-limited-ceiling Joel Anthony. Pittman couldn't play any worse. -- Andrew.

A: What we have here is backup-quarterback syndrome. How do you know what Pittman is capable of without being at Heat practices? At least take a look during pregame warm-ups. The reality is Juwan has played well so far and Joel has been anchoring the defense. Playing Pittman is not "absurd," it's simply not prudent at the moment.

Q: Can there be a case made for Mario Chalmers' contract being a good idea? --Matty.

A: Yes, because only the first two seasons are guaranteed. By then, the Heat should have a definitive read on whether Norris Cole is the starter of the future.

Q: Miami's offense looks much better than it did last year, but they're allowing some of the highest scoring totals in the league. Please tell me this is only temporary. -- John.

A: Pace has a lot to do with it. The faster the Heat score, the more time the opposition has to score. Yes, there have been a few shaky moments, but there also has been nothing but victory, which is a good thing, right?

December 31, 2011

Q: I really think Joel Pryzbilla is the final piece to a great puzzle, what do you think? -- Steph.

A: Perhaps if that puzzle is a Scrabble board. Look, he's an experienced big body and certainly wouldn't hurt, but the reality is as long as Udonis Haslem is healthy, Chris Bosh is going to get plenty of minutes in the middle. That said, I like Joel and think he would be an upgrade on the Heat's current Joel. But you also have to respect the job Joel Anthony is doing to help anchor the Heat's defense.

Q: Wasn't Michael Redd worth a try? -- Ivan.

A: No, this team has plenty of injured veterans and should be set with James Jones, Mike Miller and Shane Battier as the 3-point threats. As Battier said following Friday's game in Minnesota, his New Year's resolution is to hit a shot. It's coming folks.

Q: Miller and Curry, please. Have these guys been practicing lately and are they ready to go? Thank you. -- Chris.

A: Mike insisted Friday he is ready to go, but Erik Spoelstra says otherwise. The Heat are being extra cautious, but I would expect Mike on the active roster sometime next week. As for Curry, he has been working out relentlessly, but has three years (or more) of conditioning issues to work off, so it could be a while.

Q: How lucky is it that the Heat stole Norris Cole late in the first round versus the top of the second round? With the new CBA, that means Norris will be cheap labor for up to five years as opposed to one or two. -- Juan.

A: Outstanding point. I'm not sure that's what the Heat were thinking when they moved into the first round to select him, but considering they merely moved up three spots, from the No. 31 overall pick they held, you might be on to something.

Q: Why is it that Mario Chalmers doesn't get any love from you? -- Maria.

A: Because beyond the Big Three, I think the most important asset for anyone else in this rotation is consistency. I don't think Mario has gotten there yet. At times, he can be very good. At other times, not so very good.

December 30, 2011

Q: I know you get a ton of these questions, but what is the status of Eddy Curry? Has he been practicing? Does he look like he will be contributing to the Heat anytime soon? -- Ernest.

A: I had a chance to catch Eddy's workout Thursday and I can tell you they are working him out relentlessly, even two-a-day conditioning sessions on game days. I'm not saying the Heat are putting all their eggs in this basket, since they've been linked to some free-agent centers in recent days, but there clearly is a commitment to make this work. When you look at Eddy, you see a player. In fact, watching Eddy and Dexter Pittman, I'm not sure that Eddy is not in better shape, with his larger frame. It will be interesting to see when or if the Heat are willing to take the next step and put him on the court.

Q: I'm not the biggest LeBron fan, but if he keeps playing the inside game and team game, I could be swayed. It sure looks like he is trying very hard. Let's see if he can keep it up all season. -- Ron.

A: And in the playoffs. But it's not for show. I've been at the practices and he's working on that part of his craft consistently. But I did like the little touch when he picked up a ball after Thursday's workout, told us to take a look, and swished a three, in case there were any doubts.

Q: I'm just curious about the three games in a row. When teams are playing their third game in a row, will their opponent also be playing their third game in a row? -- Jack.

A: No, although it would have made sense, to at least try to even the playing field that way. But getting the arena dates to work is difficult. For example, when the Heat complete their only three-games-in-three-nights set on Feb. 14 in Indiana, the Pacers, remarkably, will have had the previous two nights off. The one thing I would have tried to do was make the third games of such groupings always be a home game, so at least players could wake up on game day in their own beds.

Q: What is it about the Bobcats that has given the Heat trouble season after season? -- Moshe.

A: Quick guards, which could be a challenge Friday against the Timberwolves, although it looks like Finals nemesis J.J. Barea might be out with the hamstring injury.

Q: If LeBron is defending point guards, like he did with D.J. Augustin at the end Wednesday, then why do we need point guards? -- Mario.

A: Because he doesn't want to be doing it 48 minutes, and the Heat don't want him to, with other defensive challenges to deal with.

December 29, 2011

Q: Does The Norris Cole Fan Club have a president yet? If not, where do I apply? I am glad we didn't get Chauncey Billups or Baron Davis, aren't you? -- Steve.

A: No. Let's not kid ourselves, a veteran with Norris would have been the perfect complement, especially since what this kid does is probably better suited for coming off the bench and injecting energy. Or is this your way of saying you want to see at least 20 minutes a game of Mario Chalmers? Look, Wednesday showed there is no simple solution for the Heat at point guard. But Mario did have his moments.

Q: I told my wife before the Dallas game that I love our new rookie point guard and that I thought he would be starting by the middle of the year. He looks like a mature, well-coached young man. He is a great example of the benefit of four years of college as opposed to coming right into the NBA. -- Bob.

A: I agree. Perhaps it is why a team normally with little patience for rookies or late first-round picks was so drawn to him. But for the health of your marriage, you may want to tell your wife every now and then that you love her as well as "our new rookie point guard."

Q: James Jones is becoming one of those players where I feel like I must be seeing something different than the coaching staff. I see a solid, but not spectacular, player who is an excellent 3-point shooter. Jones should be exactly the kind of role player the Heat want surrounding their superstars. But after the Finals disappearance and his lack of minutes against Boston, I am starting to think Spoelstra doesn't agree. -- Bill.

A: What Erik sees is the need for rebounding and defense when his team is playing from the lead, therefore Udonis Haslem over Jones at the close Tuesday. I don't think you would have wanted Erik to pull LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh or hero-of-the-night Norris Cole for Jones, would you? But Wednesday, when Wade couldn't start the second half, it was Jones who was on the court.

Q: Is there a better rebounding power forward tandem, in your opinion, than Bosh and Udonis Haslem? -- Adam.

A: I haven't gone through all the permutations, but the key there is for Chris to keep his rebounding numbers up, because Haslem has been pounding the glass.

Q: Are there problems with the Heat's halfcourt offense? I get that fastbreak points are easier, but also require speed, stamina, etc., that are really important in the fourth quarter. -- Ana.

A: Look, like everyone, I think the Heat's super-charged running game is a hoot, but there has to be the fallback of a well-defined halfcourt game, because that is what wins playoffs games. They certainly got what they needed at the end Wednesday from Wade.

December 28, 2011

Q: Was there not a postgame press conference from LeBron and Wade after the first two games? -- Alex.

A: Here's the deal, with the media crush down this season, there is not the need for a postgame press conference after every regular-season game like last season. Instead, the Heat have returned to the typical NBA approach of the coach addressing the media before and after games on the podium, and then players being available at the locker room. The Heat attempted to be accommodating last season and received mostly grief for the effort. Sun Sports will continue to feature interviews with the Heat's star of the game after victories, so Tweet Jason Jackson (@TheJaxShow) with your questions.

Q: Talk about knock-down shooter, the Heat never should have traded Marcus Thornton for Patrick Beverley. Just the fact that Thornton is a clutch shooter makes him a keeper. -- Steven.

A: To reiterate for the umpteenth time, the Heat made the Thornton pick for the Hornets (Beverley was a different draft-night deal). It's not as if the Heat ever had targeted Thornton (which is another story). Beverley is doing quite well overseas as a lockdown defender in Russia, for what that's worth, and could yet be back down the road. The Heat had a shooting guard by the name of Wade when Thornton was drafted.

Q: Is the reason we now have two rookies who will receive significant playing time this season that Pat Riley is adjusting to financial reality of what he has to work with? -- Brian.

A: To a degree, yes, although I wouldn't overstate any of the rookies other than Norris Cole. But if you're going to pay LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh for the next five seasons, then you have to develop cheap labor somewhere. Still, I'm not sure that Mickell Gladness becomes the next Joel Anthony.

Q: Why didn't Kevin Garnett get suspended for choking the Knicks' Bill Walker? It would have seemed pretty automatic looking at the tape. -- Jose.

A: Because the NBA knows that Kevin has another level of crazy and that incident didn't rise to that level. With Garnett, the level of judgment basically is no intensive care, no suspension.

Q: I know it's very early in the season, but, wow, Dallas looks terrible. As they were the only team that could beat us last year, could I start to get excited and say they will not be in the Finals? -- Harry.

A: I would never count out a Rick Carlisle-coached team, but it is clear that Mark Cuban has greater visions than the 2012 title, namely keeping his salary cap positioned to land a Dwight Howard or Deron Williams or even Chris Paul next summer. It's almost as if the Mavericks don't want to repeat.

December 27, 2011

Q: Hey Ira, I know Chris Bosh has added weight this offseason to crash more boards. I know he's a good midrange shooter. But where was he Sunday? I'd like to see him more often in the post. -- Daryl.

A: Look, Chris got a huge break Sunday because of the lopsided nature of the score for most of the night. He was not very good. It's one thing to be off with the shot, with his 2-of-9 shooting, but three teammates had more than his seven rebounds, including his backup, Udonis Haslem, who had twice as many. Preseason was the time for talk; this is the time for action. More will be needed. Much more. Starting Tuesday against Kevin Garnett.

Q: Can Erik Spoelstra not adjust? This is a disturbing and continuing pattern. No lead is ever safe with these guys. How come they can never keep the pedal full-throttle? -- J.Z.

A: Because it's a compressed 66-game schedule, and this season, more than any, you have to be prudent. Believe me, for as close as it got late, there would have been far more of an uproar if LeBron James and Dwyane Wade had been pushed for 40 minutes to open a stretch of eight games over 12 days. The key this season is to get the victory and get the stars out of there, not worry about the final margin.

Q: Sunday's game was fun to watch and I was happy to see LeBron not even attempt one 3-pointer. And there was little pounding of the ball. The offense actually looked like it was flowing for once. -- Moshe.

A: Yup. Now the key is that when opponents start backing off and start bracing for the post game, that LeBron doesn't settle for the jumpers simply because they're there, especially early in the clock.

Q: So you think Spoelstra will play 10 guys a night or do you think if Eddy Curry starts that Joel Anthony will be out of the rotation? -- Moses.

A: There is too much respect for Joel's defensive tenacity to push him aside. The solution might be to eventually utilize Curry as a starter and Joel as a closer, but much work still remains with Eddy.

Q: I read how David Stern reiterated his "mailing the trophy to Miami" comments from last season. How do the Heat deal with a commissioner who views them as a bad thing for his league? It's as if he feels the NBA is better off if the Heat loses. -- Alex.

A: That's not what he was saying. What he was saying is that nothing is preordained in the NBA and that even a loaded team like the Heat can come up short, as evidenced by last season. Look, this league prospers when there is a super-power, be it the Celtics, Lakers or Bulls. Stern actually has fatheads of the Big Three posted in his den.

December 26, 2011

Q: Did you notice the lack of 3-point attempts by the Big Three and how the whole team minimized them? I think this was also a big difference if we compare this game to any from last year. -- Peter.

A: Very good point. James Jones was 3 of 5 on 3-pointers, the rest of the team 0 for 2, with no attempts from the starters. That's the benefit of playing at pace and then, when that stalls, looking to LeBron James or Dwyane Wade in the post for mismatches. But this is only one game, and Rick Carlisle clearly did not have Dallas cohesive enough to go to his trademark zones. That will be the next test for the Heat. But even then, getting the 3-pointers from the right players, such as Jones or Shane Battier will be a key.

Q: When is the media gonna start criticizing LeBron's fourth-quarter performance again? Just one basket and he did nothing to stop the Mavs' comeback. -- Adrian.

A: Good points. He shot 1 of 3 in going 6:32 in the fourth, when the Heat were outscored 29-8. And, instead, a dufus like me focuses on his 37 points being the most be a Heat player on an opening night. Sorry, I'm relatively new at this and will try to get it right eventually.

Q: Ira, it's early but Norris Cole appears to have game. He's super quick and able to impede the penetration of fast point guards, which is what kills the Heat. -- Richard.

A: Agreed, although I would not overstate the defense at this point. Still, I like him off the bench because of the way he can change the pace of the game. Again, it's only one game. But the kid isn't afraid, that's for sure.

Q: Ira, Nate Robinson is now a free agent. Should Miami try to obtain him? -- Martin.

A: They already have their speed guard in Cole.

Q: I think it's completely bogus to rule out playing a guy like Pittman because the Heat is supposedly in "win-now" mode. When the Celtics assembled their big three in 2008 they still played young, unproven players like Kendrick Perkins, Rajon Rondo and even Glen Davis, who was completely lost as a rookie. -- Juan.

A: Sorry, but you can't put Pittman in the same class as Perkins, Rondo and Big Baby. You just can't.

December 25, 2011

Q: How did Eddie House wind up being the odd man out, considering the unique dimension he is able to bring to the game when he is draining threes? -- Ed.

A: Because the planets aligned in the worst possible way for Elisabeth Riley's favorite player. It wasn't only Eddie's Nov. 1 knee scope, but also the injuries that limited Mike Miller and Shane Battier during camp. The Heat felt they simply needed a fit, ready-to-go wing available for an opening two weeks that will feature nine games. Enter Terrel Harris, who showed enough in camp and his two preseason appearances to merit a further look. That doesn't mean there are any guarantees for the rookie out of Oklahoma State, and it is possible that when Battier and Miller are back up to speed that additional moves are made. Ditto with Mickell Gladness, who should continue to rent and not buy. When Eddy Curry and Dexter Pittman get back up to speed, Gladness could find himself part of a shuffle, as well.

Q: Sure, Chris Bosh can be our crunch-time center in the playoffs, but our current rotation at the position otherwise doesn't inspire much confidence for the grind of the regular season. -- Nicolas.

A: Which is why there is so much hope (prayer?) in the front office that Eddy Curry comes around with both his health and his conditioning. But, just as with the questions at point guard, this is all a residue of the money spent on Bosh, LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. Center and point guard not only stand as current issues, but could remain concerns going forward. It's not as if the Heat will have cap space any time soon.

Q: What is the big deal about a rookie starting? You said the Heat will not start Norris Cole because he is a rookie. Why? Everybody needs to start from somewhere, right? -- Habib.

A: Because this is not a developmental team that can afford to squander games in the name of development. That doesn't mean that Cole can't eventually crack the starting lineup, just not right now. Will he emerge as a superior player to Mario Chalmers? There certainly is a decent chance based on the limited sample size to this point.

Q: Why is Pittman so raw? I would have expected more by now. -- Joey.

A: He might have been hurt by the lockout as much as anyone on the roster. There's a big difference between conditioning on your own and conditioning the Heat way. No Heat player needed time in a summer league more than Dexter. The timing of the lockout for him was awful.

Q: Ira, with such a compressed schedule, you have to assume injuries and fatigue will play a huge factor in this season. The 10th, 11th and 12th men will be a factor. Coaching also will play a huge aspect (in utilizing the bench as well as knowing when to rest stars). -- Martin.

A: Don't overstate four or five fewer minutes of game time. The key is massaging players through off days and shootarounds. Erik Spoelstra seems to have done a good job of that to this point.

December 24, 2011

Q: Ira, trying to be as objective as possible, what is your prediction for the Heat this year, both regular season and the playoffs? -- Jon.

A: Well, since I'm not writing a prediction column, per se, this is probably as good a forum as any place to provide a few thoughts. I think the Heat will win at least 50 games, because they're going to be favored in every home game and certainly in more than half their road games. That doesn't mean they'll win them all, but the odds are in their favor. The only team in the East that might push them for the top playoff seed is the Bulls, simply because Chicago did it last year and Tom Thibodeau is the type of coach who doesn't know any other way than to keep his foot on the gas. And this time I think there will be a Heat championship, but I think anyone who is sleeping on the Spurs in the West is fooling themselves.

Q: The current lack of depth off the bench will push our starting team to play way too many minutes. This season will about being the healthiest team at the finish line. -- Chet.

A: I agree that it is not optimum opening the season with Shane Battier, Mike Miller, Eddie House and Eddy Curry ailing. This is where Udonis Haslem, Norris Cole and even James Jones will have to show their value. The problem is if a player misses the first two weeks of the season, he essentially is missing 15 percent of the schedule.

Q: Why does Jon Barry hate the Heat so much? Is he such a miserable person? At least Charles Barkley jokes about the Heat, but Barry really despises them. -- Jeffrey.

A: It's because he probably thinks he's a better point guard right now than Mario Chalmers.

Q: Is this new Heat "triangle on steroids" offense going to be the real deal? Or is it improbable that our top two leopards will ever change their spots, and we'll inevitably revert to hero ball? -- Freddy.

A: Put me down for one vote for "hero ball." I think players can change only so much, and Dwyane Wade and LeBron James still feel most comfortable with the ball in their hands.

Q: Ira, did the Heat make a play for Baron Davis, and, if so, why do you think he so quickly signed with the Knicks? I still think the Heat have a better chance at winning a championship. -- Tee.

A: Because the "Heat culture" can attract players and can scare them away. I don't think Baron ever wanted to deal with the Heat's organizational approach. It's simply not his way.

December 23, 2011

Q: There is no better defense for Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh than LeBron James dominating the ball and forcing shots. The Heat will never be the team that they can be until they play as a team on the offensive end of the floor. He won't hit those forced jumpers more than one night out of three, at best. He is such a good passer that he could be so much more. -- Ron.

A: Which is why I would think more structure in the offense would be a good thing. Wednesday, even though only an exhibition, raised concerns. I think breaking LeBron of old habits isn't going to be as easy as occasionally stationing him in the post.

Q: Do you think the Heat will look at the trading block to get a legitimate center? -- Ejhay.

A: Just like last season with Erick Dampier, I think the Heat will go into the season scouring for such possibilities. The shame is that they didn't have the cap space the Nets had left over, because Mehmet Okur would have fit in quite nicely.

Q: Ira, our bench is scaring me again. -- Joshua.

A: It shouldn't, because you really haven't seen it yet, with Shane Battier and Mike Miller out. With Udonis Haslem, Battier, Miller, Norris Cole and perhaps even Eddy Curry off the bench, they should be fine. Now concerns about health? That's another issue.

Q: Can the Heat offer a veteran-minimum contract for one year with a wink-wink understanding of offering a larger contract later under their Bird rights? -- Roy.

A: It would have to be a rather lengthy wink, since it would require two seasons to acquire those Bird rights.

Q: What about Darko Milicic? -- James.

A: Lord no.

December 22, 2011

Q: I think Kenyon Martin will end up in Boston since they missed out on David West. He fits their rugged, tough-guy culture. He would have been a nice fit here. He can start lots of breaks with his blocks and he runs the floor well. But where do you plug him here? We have Udonis Haslem, Chris Bosh and Shane Battier. -- Julio.

A: It will be interesting with all the players cleared to return from their China contracts in March, and it could alter the balance of the league. Martin spends a lot of his offseason time in South Florida and around Heat players, so I wouldn't count out the cult of Riley. Any player returning that late in the season clearly will be looking for a deep playoff run, something the Heat should be able to guarantee.

Q: Dexter Pittman is really raw and a foul machine, but why not play him and let him learn on the job for 10 minutes a game? Even if he fouls out in that time, I think it would be worth it. Maybe the pressure of real game play would speed up his adjustment to this level. -- Kevin.

A: Because out of the 240 total minutes a game, 10 per game actually is a lot for a player that raw. Taken further, out of the 48 minutes at center, figure even as a nominal starter that Joel Anthony is going to get 18. Then figure about that much or more in the middle for Chris Bosh, so Udonis Haslem can get his minutes. Factor in the time the Heat might be playing small ball, and there simply might not be a rotation spot there. This is a team in win-now mode, not in player development. Had Dexter gotten a full offseason and come back in better shape, it might have been a different story. As it is, he missed Wednesday's game with a quad ailment, further setting back his development.

Q: Is DeShawn Stevenson our free-agent point guard pick-up? He is a very good perimeter defender and can shoot the 3-pointer at a decent rate. He seems like a Pat Riley guy too, i.e. a "warrior." -- David.

A: First, he's not a point guard. Second, there's an awful lot of history there with LeBron James, and I'm not sure the Heat would want to deal with that at this stage.

Q: How serious are all these injuries? Is this like last season, when Dwyane Wade tweaked his hamstring and they were being cautious by keeping him out, or will Shane Battier, Mike Miller, Eddie House and Eddy Curry (if he plays at all) miss significant time? -- Jeffrey.

A: It's early, but in a shortened season it also can get late in a hurry. All should be available in early January at the latest, although Curry's conditioning could take a while.

Q: It's true, we did miss out on Chauncey Billups. But he's a free agent next summer. Ira, do you think it would be easier to get him then? -- Ronnie.

A: I think it's safe to say that 2012-13 is the last thing on the Heat's minds, be it free agents or the draft or developmental players. This is about getting this thing right right now.

December 21, 2011

Q: That last roster spot is intriguing. As good as Terrel Harris looked the other night, there are still a few quality free agents available, although having a young body off the bench is not a bad thing. -- Chet.

A: The problem is Shane Battier, Mike Miller, Eddie House and Eddy Curry all might miss the start of the season. That essentially gets you down to a nine-veteran core in a season that will feature four games in the first week, alone. As much as the kid stuff is good for the long term, I think the Heat might have the scour around for a bit more good-to-go talent.

Q: Ira, for the most part I am content with how the Heat look so far. However, I still would like another big. -- Patrick.

A: As would about half the league. With Samuel Dalembert looking like he's going back to Sacramento, it reduces the available bigs to the pool of Erick Dampier (seriously, why not?), an ailing Joel Przybilla, Solomon Jones and Theo Ratliff, if even those players are available. Of course, Earl Barron did come free Tuesday.

Q: After watching the Clippers-Lakers game, Chauncey Billups would have been good for us. We missed out big time. -- Moshe.

A: Uh, yup. But again, like I continue to emphasize, you have LeBron James and Dwyane Wade. So don't worry, be happy.

Q: I'm sorry all you Heat fans. It is going to be a very tough year because New York is now a better team than Miami. -- Elliot.

A: OMG, Knicks fans have now even invaded "Ask Ira." They're like cockroaches.

Q: The Heat have added Battier and the first-round choice, the rookie Norris Cole. Hmm, that's significant in and of itself, especially given Battier's special talents and experience. -- Roland.

A: Now that's the spirit.