The Miami Heat are off to a shaky 3-3 start, struggling to secure consistent victories, particularly due to offensive challenges and rebounding issues. Recently, rookie Pelle Larsson seized his chance off the bench, dropping 13 points against the Sacramento Kings and proving his instant competency that coach Erik Spoelstra can utilize more in the future. Given this, Spoelstra might consider giving rookie Kel’el Ware a shot, especially to provide support for Bam Adebayo in the paint.
Heat Should Play Kel’el Ware to Solve Their On-Court Struggles
Ware’s Immediate Impact on the Heat
Heat have encountered early struggles this NBA season, especially in the areas of rebounding and interior defense. Integrating Ware into the lineup could be the game-changing solution the team needs. While Ware has barely played in the regular season, he showed glimpses of his impact on both ends of the floor in those limited minutes and during the preseason. Notably, in the preseason he recorded 16 points, seven rebounds, and two blocks in a 28-minute outing against the Memphis Grizzlies. His ability to score efficiently while defending the paint offers a unique dual threat that could help address Miami’s current shortcomings.
Ware’s potential goes beyond just points and rebounds—his skill set offers versatility. At 7’0”, he possesses the mobility and shooting range to play alongside big man Adebayo, potentially shifting Adebayo to his more natural power forward role. This adjustment would allow Adebayo to focus more on his off-paint shooting while Ware manages traditional center duties. Additionally, Ware’s 42.5% three-point shooting in his last year of college indicates his capability to stretch the floor, giving Miami more spacing options in their offense.
Athletic Edge and Long-Term Development
Aside from his skill set, Ware’s athleticism and size make him a formidable presence in the paint—qualities that Miami desperately needs. Standing at 7’0”, he’s not just a rim protector; he’s also a lob threat and a floor spacer, rare qualities that can inject new dynamics into Miami’s offensive schemes. His athletic form allows him to run the floor and take on taller opponents in the post, which could contribute significantly to the Heat’s rebounding struggles and defensive fortitude.
Despite his limited playing time, Ware’s stats highlight a promising rookie season. Across five games in the Summer League this year, he averaged 18 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks, showing that he can produce when given the chance. The endorsement he received from veteran Udonis Haslem, who referred to him as the best center on the roster, only strengthened the case for more minutes. Haslem’s approval implies that Ware is more than ready to contribute to the Heat’s success this season.
“I think Bam can play the four (power forward) and move around a little bit,” Haslem said in May. “If we get a center, maybe in the draft or through free agency, then we can move Bam to the four.”
While Miami is likely cautious about overloading Ware too soon, giving him increased minutes could benefit his long-term development and solidify his place in the rotation, while Kevin Love’s injury issue does not seem optimistic. Ware has the potential to become a key player for the Heat, helping them regain their footing in the Eastern Conference and setting them up for future success. By playing Ware, the Heat could witness an immediate boost in rebounding, interior defense, and offensive flexibility, all of which are crucial to a successful season.
