Miami Heat
Nice Surprise: Dwyane Wade and defense has been superb.
So much potential, yet there were so many questions about the Heat’s M.O. entering the year. Fans asked if Wade was ready for a final act, or the curtain was already pulled. Flash’s answer: 18 points per game on 45 percent shooting. More importantly, he’s played in 25 of the team’s 26 games.
The unfathomable immergence of Hassan Whiteside is also quite the storyline. The former Sichuan Blue Whales standout is anchoring the third highest ranked defense in the NBA. Did I mention he’s shooting over 60 percent? My trash can at work sits two feet away from me and I’m still not that accurate.
Needs Improvement: Not sure what MonStar has taken over Goran Dragic, but somebody needs to wake him up. And their only backup point guard is Beno Udrih. If Heat draw the Raptors, Hornets or Bulls in the first round of the playoffs, point guard play becomes a major concern.
Next: Indiana Pacers