I was more than a little disappointed to see players like Tyler Herro be traded, but the upside is that the team acquired a proven dominant replacement in 6’11’’ Giannis Antetokoumpo and a very good 6’9’’ shooter in Bobby Portis. The team gave up a lot of talent in Herro, Ware, Jaquez and Jakuncionis. but acquired a great deal of talent in return.
The success of the season will probably depend on the performance of remaining players like Bam, Wiggins, Mitchell, Hardaway, Jr., Jovic, Larsson and, ultimately, the 7’ Goldin I have the feeling that Wiggins will also be traded before the season opens. If not, the starting 5 on opening day will likely be Giannis and the first four players listed above.
Although there are many losses of extremely good players, the new nucleus and supporting cast should eventually coalesce into a very solid team. How solid remains to be seen.
Photos Courtesy Of The Miami Heat