Here are 13 players that will be on the roster come the regular season: LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Chris Bosh, Mario Chalmers, Ray Allen, Shane Battier, Udonis Haslem, Norris Cole, Chris Andersen, Rashard Lewis, Joel Anthony, James Jones and Greg Oden.
That leaves two spots and seven players. Roger Mason Jr. had 14 points and six rebounds off the bench, making a strong argument for a spot on the team. He has a great opportunity to play for Miami.
Michael Beasley did not play last night, and Erik Spoelstra cited a calf issue as the reason. Whether or not this disrupts his chances of making the team is hard to say.
This is Beasley’s second opportunity with Miami, and it would be hard to believe that they would cut the small forward unless a serious problem arises. This is Pat Riley’s project, and he won’t give up that easily. He likes to prove people wrong and likes to say “I told you so”.
Chris Bosh did have a strong outing last night, but it is only the preseason! Don’t get me wrong, it is great to see Bosh have a good game and shoot well, but it is not that impressive or important when it is the preseason and it is against a team in the middle of rebuilding.
Bosh needs to continue to play at a high level during the regular season and when the all of the “Big 3” are on the court.
Dwyane Wade decided at the last minute that he should sit out against the Hawks. Erik Spoelstra agreed, and I applaud the decision.
These exhibition games are not important, and there is plenty of basketball to be played. Wade will play small portions of the preseason, but I expect him to rest for most of it.
Honestly, if you really want the truth, it’s only the preseason! Every now and then something crucial will happen in October, but we shouldn’t be too concerned this early.
The preseason is as valuable as Pokémon cards.
