Q: Ira, is something going on with Jimmy Butler? He has had several shots blocked in each game, which you never see, and he is 9 of 29 shooting in the two games. – Joel.
A: As I wrote in my summary of Friday night’s loss in Boston, it still appears as if Jimmy Butler and Tyler Herro are playing either/or offense, with Jimmy seemingly almost too willing to defer. Part of it could be Jimmy working his way back after sitting out the preseason, and part of it could be that October (and November and December) long have held limited value to Jimmy. As for the blocked shots against him, it’s almost as if Jimmy is offering solely what he believes is needed, as opposed to opponents who are seizing moments. Still, since Tyler went from his sixth-man role into last season’s starting lineup, the lineup chemistry with Jimmy hardly has appeared cohesive. Then, during last season’s playoff run, Jimmy had no choice but to take over after Tyler broke his hand. Now the question is whether the lineup is broken.
Q: Same old thing as last season, outrebounded by 10 in Boston and outscored by 16 in the paint. Same as it ever was. – Roland, Borrego Springs, Calif.
A: Because the Heat did not get bigger in the offseason. Thomas Bryant, in terms of build, does not necessarily even measure up to a Dewayne Dedmon or even a Cody Zeller. The muscle is lacking. And while Kevin Love has gotten his rebounds, his mobility is limited in some of those skirmishes.
Q: This is wise. Caleb Martin is a step slow. Shut him down. Get it right – Elon.
A: Agree totally. The shame is that Caleb Martin is now sidelined with his knee pain the same time Haywood Highsmith will be out at least another week with knee pain of his own. In some ways, Haywood stands as Caleb 2.0, with his ability to defend multiple positions and space the floor. The Heat need Martin right, and the only way to get him right could be an extended break. No, not optimal. But Caleb Martin at half speed does neither Caleb nor the Heat much good.