Q: The Heat were lucky to beat Chicago in the play-in because of their home record. They start at home and have to come home. – David.
A: I’m not sure a single opening win over the Magic is going to reestablish home-court advantage, not after finishing 22-19 at home last season and losing both playoff games at home to the Celtics. But with four of their first six games at home, the Heat will have a chance to make a statement, with those four games against the Magic, Pistons, Knicks and Kings. Last season wasn’t fun at the Kaseya Center, and the players acknowledged that, vowing to do better. Knowing that after this first six games, the Heat’s next six are on the road, a strong start at home could be essential.
Q: I see PJ Tucker could get a buyout from the Clippers. Would the Heat be interested? – Robert.
A: As much as they could, the Heat’s stance against the second part of the luxury tax essentially prevents them from bringing in a player, even at the bare minimum. At this point, it almost doesn’t matter who’s available on the buyout market or otherwise. The Heat, if a trade falls through, are essentially locked into all 14 players on the roster under a guaranteed contract.
Q: Hey, Ira. What happens if Jimmy Butler shows up to media day this year with another weird haircut, given the current tense situation as he heads into his senior year with no options? I like the guy, but I know his personality can get to others, like it did on the poker show. – Eddie, South Bend.
A: At this point, you accept Jimmy Butler as Jimmy Butler, whether it’s getting emotional on a media day or getting banned from a poker stream. It always depends on what happens on the court. And, in his case, how often it happens on the court.
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