House Adds Depth to Heat Roster

July 30, 2010

Veteran guard Eddie House is the newest member of the new-look Miami Heat. His two-year, $2.8 million contract makes him the 16th man on the Heat roster. While the league limit for each team is 15 players entering the regular season, teams are able to bring in as much as 20 players into training camp. Beyond that, only 14 players (including House) have guaranteed contracts at the moment. The signings of Shavlik Randolph and Kenny Hasbrouck were likely non-guaranteed.

With that said, the Heat continue to bring in a cast of seasoned role players to round out a roster spearheaded by Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh. The Heat bench now looks like this:

• PF - Udonis Haslem
• SG - Mike Miller
• C - Joel Anthony
• C - Jamaal Magloire 
• SF - James Jones
• PF - Juwan Howard 
• PG - Carlos Arroyo
• PG - Eddie House
• C - Dexter Pittman
• PF - Shavlik Randolph
• PG - Kenny Hasbrouck

House joins Miller and Jones as the Heat's three-point threats. These three have a combined 39.6% career three-point average, with Miller heading the group (40.5%). However, House has the most playoff experience of the group as he has played integral roles on teams like the Boston Celtics ('07-'09 and Phoenix Suns ('05-'06). House actually began his career in Miami and played three seasons for the Heat before turning into an NBA journeyman. His career comes full circle now as he seeks a second NBA championship ring en route before he decides to hang up his sneakers.

One of Boston's recent title runs, in the '07-'08 season, featured House averaging 7.5 points, 2.1 rebounds and 1.9 assists throughout the regular season. Miami could use such a spark off the bench while they rest Wade, James and/or Bosh during the course of a game.

In the greater scheme House adds a worthy weapon to Miami's arsenal of players. While some question this teams ability to compete for a title this season - citing potential pitfalls such as low team chemistry and too much star power at the core - there have been living examples of such teams in the past five seasons to prove such claims wrong.

The Celtics did it in '07-'08 upon the arrival of Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen and a host of new players. But most importantly the Heat did it in '05-'06 as Jason Williams, Antoine Walker, Gary Payton and company arrived to South Florida. The point: It has been done in the past and there is no doubt that it can be done again. It's difficult to question the determination of a team clearly geared towards the ultimate prize the NBA - hoisting up that championship trophy.

Miami's Last Man In?

July 27, 2010

With the re-signing of Shavlik Randolph to the Miami Heat roster, there is only one final spot left on the team. Who will be the last man in?

We weigh in.

Against common belief, Miami went ahead and re-signed Randolph in a subtle and unexpected manner. It was rumored earlier that both of Miami's remaining 2010 draftees could fill the final two roster voids. Not to mention, Jerry Stackhouse was also thrown into the equation as a veteran option for the Heat.

It is well-documented that Miami is playing with a tight budget when it comes to roster building in the post-"Three Kings" signing era. So it is obvious that their final move will be a cheap one, whether they pursue a rookie, D-Leaguer or NBA veteran. Some of their options are as follows:

• PF - Jarvis Varnado (Rookie)
• SF - Da'Sean Butler (Rookie)
• SF - Jerry Stackhouse (Veteran)
• SG - Michael Finley (Veteran)
• SF - Tracy McGrady (Veteran)
• PG - Kenny Hasbrouck (D-Leaguer)
• PG - John Lucas III (D-Leaguer)

That list may not be filled with prime quality players, but it does contain many different options. What matters the most here is Miami's goals with their final roster spot. Will it be to add depth with a dependable and proven option? If so, a veteran will be tabbed for the position. Will they seek a young athlete with some experience and room for potential growth? Then a D-Leaguer may fit their wants the best. However if that 15th man will just be a bench warmer, then perhaps a rookie may be the best solution. That way, he earns valuable mentorship under the other veterans on the team and has time to develop into an NBA-ready player.

With plenty of experience already on the Heat roster, the most fitting option seems to be going with a rookie. And just by the sake of each rookie's situation, Varnado may be the chosen one as Butler is still under a deep recovery process as a result of his knee surgery. That does not mean Butler is out of the equation though. The front office may see more potential in him than they do in Varnado, hence giving him the edge despite his circumstances.

Either way, Miami has a pair of quality college players on their hands, both of which played four years at their respective universities and have plenty of maturity to go with their games. While the goal may be to compete this season and for many more to come, it won't hurt the Heat to keep a work-in-progress in their hip progress. Heck, they did it with Dorell Wright and he came through in his final season. Why not take that same minimal risk this time around?

Why LeBron Doesn't Need to be "The Man"

July 26, 2010

As we have seen with the enormous flak LeBron James has received as a result of his offseason decision to join the Miami Heat, there seems to be a fascination with wanting NBA superstars to be "the man" on "their" respective teams. After all, both the media and the fans enjoy labeling former greats like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, Larry Bird and a host of other elites as "the man."

Perhaps it gives them a sense of comfort in identifying the single most valuable person on previous NBA championship teams. Or maybe they want to emphasize the greatness of the individual over the value of the collective team. "Jordan did it all by himself," they say. "Bird was the man in Boston," they proclaim.

However their legacies were ultimately built on a single common thread: The fact that they were NBA champions multiple times. Not their dominance as the centerpiece of a particular squad.

While the likes of Karl Malone, Reggie Miller and Charles Barkley are no-doubt Hall of Famers, they will always be regarded as just one notch below the aforementioned players. Why? Because those rings matter more than any statistics, individual awards or accolades could ever be worth. Mr. Jordan would never be considered "the greatest" had he not played alongside the proper caliber players and won the titles that he did. Whether he was "the man" or not, what mattered to the city of Chicago was the titles he brought to their region.

Nevertheless, individuals such as Robert Horry, Steve Kerr and Ron Harper will forever be labeled champions, without either being "the man" or staying loyal to one team. Their legacies will be draped with success, having accomplished the most coveted goal of the sport various times.

So what does it matter to the critics of LeBron James whether his decision eliminates him from the label of "the man?" Being "the man" is besides the fact in today's NBA world. The Association's top players all allocate championships as first and foremost in their list of priorities.

Remember, while basketball may be a business for media outlets and team executives, it is still a game of competition among the players themselves. The age old practice of sticking to one team through several years of mediocrity is less common in the current NBA era. Kevin Garnett paid his dues as the franchise player in Minnesota for 12 seasons prior to making the move to Boston, and was not given much criticism for his decision. Was it the fact that he committed over a decade's worth of title-less basketball that made his decision acceptable? But James' seven-year commitment to the Cavaliers does not place him in the same light?

James' decision was proactive rather than reactive. Instead of being "31 years old, with bad knees and no title," with the Cavaliers, James will be competing every season for at least half a dozen years in Miami. Clearly, in the seven seasons that James played in Cleveland the front office did not prove that they could build a championship roster. On the contrary, Pat Riley had a proven track record of assembling the right pieces for a title contending team in Miami.

In addition to that, staying loyal to a single team and expecting that talent will be built around oneself can be a bit of an egotistical move. The only difference between having talent built around you and leaving to surround yourself with a talented team is ego and luck. Ego to believe that "you" are the one that needs to be catered to. And luck to have a good enough front office and available talent in the market to build a championship team around "you."

What James did was sacrifice his chance to be an alpha dog and receive the brunt of a team's fame and fortune for the sake of winning the ultimate prize. Whether he is mentioned in the same sentence as previous "men" in NBA history or not, the rings on his fingers will be the most resounding part of his legacy. And he seems just fine with that.

LeBron made a decision based on reason rather than emotion.

LeBron made a decision to pave his own legacy rather than trail behind Jordan's.

LeBron made a clear statement to the world: "The ring" transcends "the man."

Another Walk-Off in the Park

July 22, 2010

A second walk-off win in four games gave the Florida Marlins the series win over the Wild Card leading Colorado Rockies. That makes five wins in the last seven games after the All-Star break. If fans were looking for a second half push by the Fish, they are making one early on.

While Josh Johnson was snubbed of another lead to the hands of the bullpen (for the fifth time this season, to be exact), Emilio Bonifacio and Ronny Paulino came through in the clutch. Bonifacio's lead-off triple placed a runner in prime scoring position to set up Paulino, who blasted a single into the outfield to secure the 3-2 victory. Just three nights before, Donnie Murphy gave a walk-off two-run homer to provide the Fish with a series opening victory against the Rockies. Paulino's single sealed the series closer with the same outcome.

Unfortunately, the Marlins still have a steep climb towards to top of the N.L. East and Wild Card races. As of this writing, the Marlins are nine games behind the Atlanta Braves for the division lead and five games behind the Rockies for the Wild Card.

But the Marlins can only worry about themselves at this point. Win streaks and series wins are the only way to fight their way back into any kind of playoff race, regardless of the teams above them. It is not until the Fish come within striking distance of either race that they can worry about having other teams stumble in the standings.

For starters, the Marlins should look to surpass the .500 mark as a short-term goal. Once achieved, they can then set higher goals for themselves.

And if they wish to make a dent in their own division, the upcoming home series versus the Braves (July 23-25) and Philadelphia Phillies (August 3-5) will be crucial. There may be an entire half of baseball still to play, but the climb back into contention must start now.

Arroyo to Sign, Two Roster Spots Left

July 22, 2010

On Wednesday night PG Carlos Arroyo stated that he will be joining the Miami Heat for a second consecutive season, making him the 13th player on the revamped Heat roster. Arroyo's presence brings much needed depth at the point guard position, especially after Mario Chalmers' recent ankle injury about a week ago. However, this move does something else for Miami: limits their choices for the final two roster spots.

Rookie draft pick Dexter Pittman has already reached an agreement with the Heat, but Jarvis Varnado and Da'Sean Butler have not. Other names have been thrown into the pool of potential Heat signees, including D-League standout Kenny Hasbrouck and his league comrade Garret Siler. Not to mention, other veterans are still out there for the taking if Miami chooses to go that route (Jerry Stackhouse made an on-air pitch to join Miami just the other day).

That makes things highly competitive between all prospective players seeking a contract with the Heat. And while the talent pool may not be filled with the cream of the crop, there are two routes Miami can take with this decision: Go for potential in a rookie or D-Leaguer or take the proven, yet limited, commodity of a veteran.

It is unlikely that these two roster spots will make or break the team's chances at a title, however it may play a role in the team's future. Whether it may be discovering the value of a young athlete for a cheap price or taking a hit to the cap with the trusted services of a veteran (e.g. offering another veteran minimum contract), these moves will definitely have an impact.

With training camp just around the corner, expect the final two roster spots to be filled in the coming weeks. Will the two second-round draft picks earn their spots on the team? Or will the D-Leaguers steal a spot or two? How about those savvy veterans looking for their first ring? The questions will be answered soon enough.

Star-Studded Humility

July 19, 2010

Fame and power are two virtues commonly associated with selfish individuals. In the case of Alonzo Mourning and Dwyane Wade, that association does not apply. Instead, their collective celebrity status has been used time and time again to serve those less fortunate in our society. On Sunday afternoon, that trend continued as the two NBA champions capped off The Summer Groove with their All-Star Game finale.

Alley-oop passes, rim-rattling dunks and long range three-pointers dominated the exhibition game in front of a packed crowd. NBA athletes, both current and past, performed for the South Florida fans as the Old School faced off against the New School on the hardwood. The smiles painted on the faces of the stars and fans alike attested to the jovial environment at the American Airlines Arena. Players like Tim Hardaway, Dorell Wright, Mo Peterson, Samuel Dalembert, Brandon Bass and a slew of other notables gave the audience a show worth their money; Money that would go towards a greater cause than oneself.

While the show on the court was quite a spectacle, the benefits it generated go beyond spectacular. The Alonzo Mourning Charities and Wade's World Foundation have raised millions of dollars towards the betterment of our youth for several years. Since 1997, the Alonzo Mourning Charities has raised in excess of $7 million. The Wade's World Foundation came to fruition in 2003 and has also generated vast amounts of funding for youth initiatives in South Florida and Chicago. Together they work towards a healthier, more educated generation of children that are properly equipped with the resources to succeed and lead in our world.

The spotlight may constantly be shining on the faces of Zo and D. Wade, but it is their humility that guides that spotlight towards the faces of our youth - society's future - during the week of The Summer Groove. It's gestures of kindness like these that make Miami's two greatest NBA stars models for a better society.

* * *

Photo Album from the Event

Second Annual Fantasy Football League

July 13, 2010

With every new football season comes the hopes of accomplishing the ultimate goal: To win in your fantasy football league. It's alright if your favorite team gets torched by their division rival, as long as you get your two touchdowns from your starting running back in the process. Victory is spelled out S-T-A-T-S, because that's the bottom line. And now you can relive this most wonderful part of football season by joining Miami Sports Generation's second annual fantasy football league.

We're bringing back the prizes and adding more to the pot this time around. Not only will we bring back our free fantasy league, we have upped the ante with better prizes for the top three winner.

Those interested in joining our league, please contact info@miamisportsgeneration.com with an email titled "Fantasy Football" containing your first name and last initial (example: David V.).

Free League Details

• No cost to enter with prizes for top three winners.
• First place receives a Fantasy League Champion T-Shirt, Miami Sports Generation Mug and Miami Sports Generation Bumper Sticker.
• Second place receives a Miami Sports Generation Mug and Miami Sports Generation Bumper Sticker.
• Third place receives a Miami Sports Generation Bumper Sticker.

Just like last year, you (the reader) will take on us (the authors) and battle it out to see if you can earn a prize by placing top three in either of our leagues. If we place, that means less prizes to give out, and we would like to save all the money we can. So bring your "A" game and test out your fantasy football wits against ours. See you on the gridiron!

Putting the LeBron Critiques in Perspective

July 12, 2010

 It's difficult to put this entire situation in better word than Dan LeBatard of the Miami Herald did in his July 11th article. Nevertheless, I will attempt to provide added perspective to the unprecedented and skewed negative criticisms that LeBron James has received throughout this free agency period.

There have been many things said about James, most of which are reactionary rather than rational, that have tainted the NBA athlete's image with undeserved negativity. Just review some of the tidbits that Cleveland Cavaliers owner, Dan Gilbert, and Orlando Magic GM, Otis Smith, had to say in order to get a glimpse at this phenomenon.

Dan Gilbert:

"This shocking act of disloyalty from our home grown "chosen one" sends the exact opposite lesson of what we would want our children to learn. And "who" we would want them to grow-up to become"

Otis Smith:

``I thought [James] was more of a competitor. The great ones usually stay in one location.''

Clearly these are attacks on James' character with biased, one-sided attitudes firmly embedded in them. Gilbert uses blame tactics to paint James as not only a traitor, but an anti-role model for the youth, while Smith challenges James' competitiveness for not being selfish enough to earn a title in the team he began with.

In defense of James, Gilbert is falsely blaming a single athlete for the demise of his basketball team, despite the fact that teams are built with a roster of 12 to 15 players. How can one person, who committed seven seasons of his life with no title success, be blamed for seeking a better opportunity? In fact, Gilbert is the one who has direct control of player personnel moves and was part of the Cavaliers' failure to surround James with the proper talent to secure a championship. James does not.

As for Smith, his definition of competitor is constructed through the scope of limited NBA history. The fact that James left his team to join Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh can only be defined as "lacking competitive drive" if you deny other instances of star-studded partnerships in the history of The Association. Was Kevin Garnett "less of a competitor" when he left Minnesota for Boston? Was Charles Barkley less of a competitor when he left Phoenix for Houston (to join Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler)? While staying with one team and battling through the struggles of achieving a title may seem more fulfilling, a ring is not guaranteed by such sacrifice. Karl Malone and John Stockton can attest to this reality.

Beyond the criticism within the league, we find claims that James will never be in the same light as Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant since he could not "do it it on his own." Obviously such statements deny the existence of the Scottie Pippens, Dennis Rodmans, Pau Gasols and Lamar Odoms of this league that catapult their super stars from winners to champions. What is the difference between a super star having talent placed around him and a super star joining a team that already has talent at its core? Perspective, that's all.

At the center of this dilemma is the reality that LeBron James made the decision that was best for himself. Whether one agrees with the way he went about making his choice or not, the reality is that James sacrificed money, popularity and ego for the sake of achieving his ultimate goal: to win championships. Last time I checked, the pursuit of happiness was something that was valued and encouraged in the United States of America. When James hoists up his first title, and others to follow, the smile on his face will be living proof that his pursuit has been achieved.

Miami Gets the Groove Back, Again

July 12 ,2010

There is no doubt that the recent acquisitions of Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh will define the Miami Heat for years to come. However, this trio will never touch the soul of the Heat community that one Alonzo Mourning did and still does. From his passionate roars on the court to his compassionate gestures off the court, Zo is symbolic of what the Heat organization is all about. And this week he will bring back his Summer Groove to South Florida to continue the legacy of humility and sympathy established over a decade ago.

Following in the footsteps of Mourning is Wade, who joined Zo's cause just two years ago and hopes to cement his own legacy in the same likeness of the future Hall of Fame center. From July 14 through the 18, these two Miami stars will join forces for The Summer Groove in an effort to fund the Alonzo Mourning Charities and Wade's World Foundation.

Here's a list of the series of events that will be held throughout South Florida:

The Summer Groove Golf Classic - July 14, 2010
Location: Doral Golf Resort & Spa
Time: 7:30 AM - 2:00 PM
Registered teams/players only.
Click here for more information.

Youth Sports Conference - July 15, 2010
Location: Miami Jackson Senior High School
Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
For invited youth groups only.
Click here for more information.

Youth Basketball Clinic - July 16, 2010
Location: Miramar Enrichment Youth Center
Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
For invited youth groups only.
Click here for more information.

Alters Law Firm Summer Groove Comedy Jam Hosted by Heineken - July 16, 2010
Location: Hard Rock Live (Hollywood, FL)
Time: 7:30 PM
Ticketed event open to the public.
Click here for more information.

Publix Charities Summer Groove Benefit Gala - July 17, 2010
Location: Hard Rock Live (Hollywood, FL)
Time: 6:30PM
Ticketed event open to the public.
Click here for more information.
 
Michael Fux Foundation Summer Groove Youth Empowerment Summit - July 17, 2010
Location: Signature Grand
Time: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
For invited groups only.
Click here for more information.

The Summer Groove Block Party - July 18, 2010 
Location: American Airlines Arena
Time: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Free event open to the public.
Click here for more information. 

Carnival Cruise Lines Summer Groove All-Star Basketball Game - July 18, 2010
Location: American Airlines Arena
Time: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Ticketed event open to the public.
Click here for more information.

If you are interested in attending any of these events, tickets are available through Ticketmaster by phone at (800) 745-3000 or www.TicketMaster.com and/or visit www.TheSummerGroove.com for more information.

Miami Heat 2010 Offseason Moves

July 10, 2010

Last Update: 7/28/10 @ 5:30 PM

Beyond the acquisition of arguably the most talented trio in NBA history, the Miami Heat still have work to do in order to complete their roster and be ready for the 2010 NBA season. Below we list the latest trades and signings that the Heat have completed to date. This post will be updated as more developments stream in, so stay tuned.

Trades

• Acquired F LeBron James in a sign-and-trade deal with the Cleveland Cavaliers, sending two future first-round draft picks and two future second-round draft picks in return for James. James agreed to a six-year, $110 million contract*.

• Acquired F/C Chris Bosh in a sign-and-trade deal with the Toronto Raptors, sending two 2011 first-round draft picks in return for Bosh. Bosh agreed to a six-year, $110 million contract*.

• Traded F Michael Beasley to the Minnesota Timberwolves in return for a future second-round draft pick.

• Traded G Daequan Cook and their 2010 first-round draft pick to the Oklahoma City Thunder in return for a 2010 second-round draft pick (C Dexter Pittman).

Signings

• Re-signed G Dwyane Wade to a six-year, $107.5 million contract*.

• Signed G/F Mike Miller to a five-year, $30 million contract.

• Signed C Joel Anthony to a five-year, $18 million contract.

• Re-signed F/C Udonis Haslem; terms of the contract have not been disclosed. Haslem reportedly turned down offers from the Dallas Mavericks and Denver Nuggets worth much more than Miami's offer.  

• Signed C Zydrunas Ilgauskus to a two-year, $2.8 million contract with a player option after the first season.

• Re-signed C Jamaal Magloire to a one-year deal for the veteran minimum salary (approximately $1.4 million). 

• Signed F/C Juwan Howard for the veteran minimum salary, length of the contract has not been disclosed.

• Signed C Dexter Pittman to a three-year deal. The amount of the contract has not been disclosed, but second-round picks typically earn around $450,000 (not guaranteed) to start.

• Re-signed PG Carlos Arroyo. Terms of the contract have yet to be disclosed.

• Re-signed F/C Shavlik Randolph. Terms of the contract have yet to be disclosed. 

• Re-signed G Kenny Hasbrouck.Terms of the contract have yet to be disclosed. Hasbrouck is the 15th player on the Heat roster, filling the final spot on the team.

Other Moves

• Bought out F James Jones contract for $1.86 million, freeing up cap space for the Heat and making Jones an unrestricted free agent.

• Drafted C Dexter Pittman (Texas), F/C Jarvis Varnado (Mississippi State) and F Da'Sean Butler (West Virgina) in the second round of the 2010 NBA Draft.

*Wade, James and Bosh all have the ability to opt out of their contracts after the 2014 season. All three players took in excess of $15 million worth of pay cuts each in order to free up cap space to fill the remainder of the Heat roster.

* * *

Projected Starting Roster

• PG - Mario Chalmers
• SG - Dwyane Wade
• SF - LeBron James
• PF - Chris Bosh
• C - Zydrunas Ilgauskus

Projected Reserves

• PF - Udonis Haslem
• SG - Mike Miller
• C - Joel Anthony
• C - Jamaal Magloire 
• SF - James Jones
• PF - Juwan Howard 
• PG - Carlos Arroyo
• C - Dexter Pittman
• PF - Shavlik Randolph
• PG - Kenny Hasbrouck 

Three the Magic Number for Miami

July 9, 2010

Three years of mediocre basketball for the sake of one offseason. Three stars align in Miami for one goal. The number three still at the heart of the Heat roster. As Dwyane Wade stated himself in a statement last night, "there's magic in the number [three]."

It was just three seasons ago that Miami suffered through a horrendous 15-win season, easily the toughest season in the past decade for Heat fans to swallow. But great sacrifice has led to great reward for Miami as they have landed three of the most highly touted players in the NBA today: Dwyane Wade, LeBron James and Chris Bosh.

Joining forces to build a potential dynasty in South Florida, these three star centerpieces look to change the face of the NBA with their unprecedented union. At the core of their decisions to play alongside one another was a singular goal: to win championships. And now that goal has become truly possible with the dynamic talents and skills that each of these players bring to the court.

From the onset, Pat Riley stated his promise to bring more titles to Miami starting with the team's 2010 offseason makeover. Today that promise has become more palpable and achievable. Preaching values of faith and family, Riley placed his reputation on the line as he sacrificed the Heat's future through his 2010 plan. In the end, Riles came through for the Heat organization by securing yet another landmark acquisition, adding to the Alonzo Mourning and Shaquille O'Neal blockbuster trades already inked on his resume.

Still in their prime, Wade, James and Bosh have the special opportunity to contend for multiple titles in coming seasons. It's only a matter of time before other veterans and quality role players buy into the same Pat Riley philosophy that lured the three stars to South Beach. One thing is for certain and that is that Miami is en route to the promised land with this new shift of power that will send shock waves throughout The Association for years to come.

Riley Lures Bosh, Keeps Wade

July 7, 2010

After all the promises he gave his beloved Miami Heat fans, Pat Riley has come through once again with the acquisition of Chris Bosh and the re-signing of Dwyane Wade. Securing at least a dynamic duo with the room to add yet another max contract, the Heat have set a solid foundation for themselves early in this free agent signing period. Now other prospective players can look at Miami as a team with legitimate contending potential and join forces with Wade and Bosh.

While these signings come as both a rush of joy and sigh of relief, there is still much work to be done. Currently two players are signed to contracts on the Heat roster (excluding Wade and Bosh), with the rights to five players waiting in the balance (three of which are rookies). Now it's time to surround the Heat's core with quality role players that compliment the system.

In terms of shooters, Raja Bell has voiced his preference to come to Miami and play in his hometown.With a career 41% three-point field goal percentage, Bell has shot well beyond the arc in just about all of the seven destinations he has played in throughout his career. Re-signing Quentin Richardson could also add another perimeter scorer to compliment the inside-out game that Miami aims for.

However, there are two more positions that will need bolstering in order to round out the roster: point guard and center. Mario Chalmers is currently the only point guard under contract and his performance last season took a dip. Averaging 8.6 points and 4.2 assists in his first two NBA seasons, his production does not fit that of a starting point guard to this point. A veteran point guard, perhaps Raymond Felton, could be the better option at the one spot to open up the game.

As for the center position, Brendan Haywood has emerged as a possible suitor to fill Miami big-man vacancy. A possible sign-and-trade deal could ship Jermaine O'Neal to Dallas in return for Haywood, but such speculation has not gained any legs, so to speak. Miami could even decide to retain O'Neal and sign him to a much more affordable contract. Those are just two options that are obvious, but one can never predict what dealings Riley discusses behind closed doors, especially when it comes to centers. We all know Riley likes his teams built with a bonafide big man, just think back to his days with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Patrick Ewing, Alonzo Mourning and Shaquille O'Neal.

Thus, we should can only expect more developments to come in the next few weeks as the Heat look to lat down the remaining pieces to what should be a contending roster. Whether Michael Beasley is a part of that recipe is still highly uncertain. Nevertheless, if things turn out anything like 2005, other valuable players will join the Heat bandwagon en route to a title in the next season or so.

Leo Nunez Unfit for Closer Role

July 3, 2010

 Deep within the pits of the Florida Marlins abysmal bullpen stands closer Leo Nunez; the man Florida relies on to secure victories in the final inning of tight ballgames. Unfortunately, being labeled "closer" has been a misnomer for the young Nunez as he has been far from a deal-sealer, in fact he has left the door ajar for other teams to come back various times this season.

As of this writing, Nunez has stepped up to the mound in 21 save opportunities and has blown five of those appearances (approximately a 25% failure rate). More specifically, in three of those five blown saves Nunez has given up two earned runs in a single inning of work.

There's no doubt that blame can be spread throughout the Marlins' relief pitching staff, but a faulty and unreliable closer only exacerbates the situation. It's unacceptable for any team to have their closer posting a 3.65 ERA in the month of May, 4.09 ERA in the month of June and 3.31 ERA for the season, ala Leo Nunez.

And his track record only dampens any hope of improvement for Nunez. His career ERA stands at 4.49, with the brunt of it coming from poor performances during his four-year stint with the Kansas City Royals. Already in his sixth season in the Majors, it seems as if Nunez' potential has plateaued and is a what-you-see-is-what-you-get player at this stage.

If the Marlins are tow make any moves prior to the trade deadline, their highest priority should be to acquire a closer-caliber relief pitcher. At least it would sure up one spot in an already lackluster bullpen. Perhaps then Nunez could find a niche role as a specialist reliever that appears in particular situations. At this point, such a move would bring some order to the chaos.