Every week during the NBA season, a cast of the top NBA bloggers on the internet will join About.com to answer the top several questions on the minds of NBA fans. So read the expert words of these bloggers on trades, injuries, team analysis, off-the-court issues and anything else that makes the NBA world go round.
The Answer Pepes
OK, let's bring the Heat right from the tip. Does Miami, without Dwyane Wade for the foreseeable future, actually make the playoffs? And if so, with Wade trying to come back for the postseason, how effective will he be? Should Wade think long-term and not risk further damage to his shoulder?
Nick: Let me go on record right now as saying, "Yes, the Heat DO make the playoffs." They're currently seeded sixth out East with a record of 34-29, and are enjoying the return of the Big Diesel. And as far as I'm concerned, any team that can boast Shaq on their roster has a great shot of making noise in the postseason.
Now, with Dwayne Wade's shoulder injury, the Heat are seriously depleted, but you have to keep in mind that they do have some other great players still on that roster. Gary Payton, Antoine Walker, and Alonzo Mourning are an unbelievable trio to have coming off the bench, and I like James Posey, Udonis Haslem, and Eddie Jones in the starting lineup.
Wade's game is dependent on aggressively attacking the basket and if he is able to play, but not able to play his game, the Heat still benefit, but in what capacity is going to be an interesting story. As far as thinking long-term with the injury, stop thinking that way. Wade is a warrior and the unfortunate injury could be re-aggravated or re-damaged at any point from here on out in his career. So, if I was Wade's medical council, and cleared him to play, I would leave the decision up to him knowing that he is going to play with hopes that he guards that shoulder.
Atma Brother #1: Shaq has turned back the clock and the Heat, even without Dwyane Wade, have a realistic chance of taking home the Southeast Division crown. Look out for Eddie Jones too.
Wade's a smart man. If he comes back and plays, it will be because both he and Heat aren't worried about further shoulder damage. Jones will make Wade's life easier and allow DWade to continue playing at an extremely high level.
I have to hand it to Miami though. They've made a mockery of the regular season and they're still probably going to end up in the Eastern Conference Finals at the very least.
Dave: As we speak the Heat have just run off seven wins in a row, led by the newly resurrected Shaquille O’Neal. With the East relatively weak it’s hard to bet against them. However, the Heat do have a rough schedule in the next couple months, with 13 of their last 20 games against playoff teams and/or Western Conference teams. You kind of wonder how long Shaq can hold up playing the minutes necessary to get those wins. Right now it looks like they’ll make the playoffs, but it may be a low seed and they may not be in great shape when they get there. I think if the Heat even come close to repeating this year it will be a major surprise and one heck of a story.
As for whether Wade should risk his future (if such a clear choice were possible) that would depend on whether you think he’ll be able to win championships without the Big Fella. If not he better make his hay now.
Ryan: My heart says yes, but my mind says no. Logic says that the Heat's season should have been over when they lost Dwyane Wade but they are 8-2 in their last 10 games, so I'm starting to think that the wily vets Pat Riley has brought on board have enough juice in the tank to make a run this season. How deep they can go in the playoffs is debatable, but they currently own the sixth seed in the East and I think they could pull off a first round upset if they are seeded that low when the playoffs get underway.
Dennis: The East is so weak, I can see the Heat making it in. As far as Wade, the man is grown. He can make his own decisions. Unfortunately, he cannot make the decision for his opponents who may take shots at that shoulder to throw him off his game. But, Wade is such a special player when he's healthy, an 80% Wade is still better than most of the NBA.
