ASK IRA: Is Heat bench boost as good as it gets?

4 hours ago 1

Q: Ira, is it a coincidence that the Heat are winning with the bench playing well again? Those guys are something. – Mel.

A: It helps when the starting lineup is closer to whole, which was the case with Bam Adebayo back on Monday night. Plus, with the Heat also starting Kel’el Ware, that leaves plenty of energy off the bench. And when Jaime Jaquez Jr., Pelle Larsson, Nikola Jovic and Dru Smith are energizing, the activity jumps to another level. In that regard it is a shame we’re back on ankle watch with Pelle. But these bench pieces fit, particularly with Nikola willing to play as center with that unit, and with Andrew Wiggins cycling back to thrive with that unit. So, no, not a coincidence. On a team lacking a true superstar, everyone has to eat, with the bench serving up needed support at the moment.

Q: Jaime Jaquez with 11 assists? Who saw that coming? – Pete.

A: Probably Jaime? And that’s the difference when he’s at his attacking best, now no longer forcing, but rather taking advantage of collapsing defenses to make teammates better. But, yes, to see that 11 in the assist column next to Jaime was a bit of a jolt on Monday night’s final box score. Even better, to see zero turnovers means the efficiency was off the charts on a night Jaime shot 8 of 11. So, yes, firmly back in the discussion for Sixth Man Award.

Q: I have always been a Tyler Hero fan, but his injury history is a concern. Can’t look away anymore. I would get into fights with my spouse for saying he’s “breakable.” He’s becoming another Anthony Davis, and that’s not good. – Pipsy.

A: Actually, if the skill level was to an Anthony Davis degree, there might be a bit higher degree of grace, since there still appears to be a robust trade market for Davis. But, yes, the injury questions we thought went away with Tyler last season very much have resurfaced and are undeniable. Still, it appears he will be back within a week.

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