ASK IRA: Is Kel’el Ware as a postseason starter a Heat possibility?
Q: It only took Erik Spoelstra 80 games to get Kel’el Ware where he should be, in the starting lineup. Now we’re talking. – Thomas.
A: Or not. First Kel’el Ware started 32 games before these last two games. As for these last two games of the regular season, consider what was fielded Friday night by the Wizards and Sunday by the Hawks .
As much as anything, they likely stood as starts of opportunity, with Erik Spoelstra able to move Ware into the lineup at minimal risk. It would be difficult to fathom Kel’el starting in the play-in against the Hornets and their 3-point shooting. That seemingly would set up as a pick-and-roll disaster with Kel’el in drop coverage.
(Although I’m sure Kon Kneuppel would be greatly appreciative. ) Yes, Spoelstra has shown an ability to innovate with his postseason approaches over the years, but with this quick of a turnaround, not sure that he can get Kel’el in the right space to make it work against the Hornets’ approach. Related Articles Submit your “Ask Ira” question here!
Q: Now they’ve signed Jahmir Young to a standard contract, to me, this move feels a lot like when they picked up Kendrick Nunn at the end of the 2018–19 season. From what you know about how the Heat operate, is that a fair comparison? Thanks.