Three questions the Heat face heading into training camp
With training camp about to tip off, here’s what to watch for as your favorite team prepares for the 2015-16 season. Some of these questions will be answered quickly; others could linger into the regular season. Either way, here are three things that will define the first month of this new season:
What is the ceiling on this revamped Heat roster?
The Heat could be in for a better year than people expect. The Bulls weren't quite as good last year and have brought in a new coach which could send them in either direction. The Wizards have been stagnant in the standings under Randy Wittman. Toronto had a dreadful second half and postseason last year. Milwaukee didn't add the shooting it might need to hit the next level. So, could we see Miami finish top-two in the Eastern Conference?
How good does this team have to be to make giving up two draft picks for Goran Dragic worth it?
The Heat gave up 2017 and 2021 first-round selections to acquire Dragic last season. The former Suns point guard looked uncomfortable at times during his sole half-season in Miami, but after re-signing over the summer, he'll have training camp and preseason to get his feet wet and familiarize himself with new teammates. Can he return to All-NBA levels under Erik Spoelstra?
Will health be a big factor again?
Health killed the Heat last year, which could be looked at as a positive or negative for them heading into training camp, considering assumed health would cause for significant improvement. Chris Bosh, Dwyane Wade and Josh McRoberts all missed significant time. Will they be healthy in the upcoming year? Can Wade's performance stay consistent? Will a now-30-year-old Luol Deng be able to play everyday with all those Bulls minutes on his legs? And can Amar'e Stoudemire stay on the floor?
