Q: Ira, if this keeps going south, who goes first, Erik Spoelstra? -- Dan.
A: Among the reasons I have shied from utilizing such questions from the mailbag (not that I don't appreciate the time taken for such submissions), is that I see zero chance of Erik Spoelstra being pushed out of his job based on the current record or even one that goes further south. The day Spoelstra moves on will be a day of an even larger organizational makeover. And that time is not any time soon. So assuming you also are asking about the roster, the move that makes the most sense would be flipping Wayne Ellington for a draft choice or younger, lower-cost prospect, as a means of also working toward getting out of the luxury tax (not because of the cash implications, but rather the pesky longer-term ramifications of the luxury tax). In many ways, Wayne, with his professionalism, sets up as the perfect specialist for a contender one 3-point shooter away from a higher level of competiveness. That said, there are two factors at play: 1. Wayne cannot be dealt until Dec. 15, after signing this offseason as a free agent. 2. As an impending Bird Rights free agent on a one-year contract, Wayne has the right to veto any trade. That said, I would be believe that playing for a contender, and therefore showcasing himself for a contender in advance of his next entry into free agency, could prove enticing enough to acquiesce. Otherwise, it's not as if there are many tradeable contracts on this roster, at least ones that could fetch a draft pick or prospect.
Q: If the 76ers are amenable to it, the Heat should offer Goran Dragic for Markelle Fultz. Fultz would give the Heat a high-potential point guard who doesn't seem to fit in with Ben Simmons, but who would fit in well with the Heat's young core. The 76ers would receive a guard who can play on or off the ball, has playoff experience, and (most importantly) would provide the ability to shoot from range, as well as drive to the bucket. -- Matt, Boynton Beach.
A: Um, have you seen that shot? And let's not overstate token minutes as a playoff afterthought last season. To be candid, I'm not sure NBA evaluators know if there is much there, or if Fultz isn't something closer to the latest Anthony Bennett type of draft reach. All of that said, what I would do, if the 76ers would acquiesce, would be to consider such a move if it also includes a return of the Heat's unprotected 2021 first-round pick that initially was dealt to the Suns and was since forwarded to the 76ers. In that case, the Heat would at least be assured of a tangible future asset in return.
Q: Get rid of the Vice jerseys. The Heat don't deserve anything that nice. -- Justin.
A: Well, we'll get to see over the next two games whether swapping Vice Nights for something less gaudy will result in actual points instead of style points.
iwinderman@sunsentinel.com. Follow him at twitter.com/iraheatbeat or facebook.com/ira.winderman
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