ASK IRA: Will Heat’s extended preseason schedule turn into a Spoelstra rotation laboratory?

Heat's Preseason: More Practice Than Proving Ground?

Fans weigh in on exhibition games and roster moves.

Anderson writes: "I like that the Heat are playing six exhibition games. There is so much we need to know. Now we can see where it stands with Jaime Jaquez, Nikola Jovic, Terry Rozier, and even if the rookie, Kasparas Jakucionis, is ready."

"I still tend to view exhibitions more as nuisance than any type of nuanced laboratory," Ira responds. "Unless the opposition also is committed to the exercise, it is more difficult to get reads on players in preseason games than against teammates competing in practices... What Erik Spoelstra wants to see, he can better craft during practices."

Could Al Horford be a Heat target?

Jason asks: "What about signing free-agent Al Horford? The Heat have a need at that position and he seems like a good fit with Heat culture and playing style."

"The prevailing thought is that Al Horford will sign with Golden State once the Warriors work out their free-agency situation with Jonathan Kuminga," Ira reveals. "I also would think that Al would seek more of a win-now situation than the Heat’s if he is going to play this coming season."

A Bold Trade Proposal

Michael pitches: "If we get Nikola Vucevic for Terry Rozier and a second-round pick and then sign Kai Jones, then I would feel confident going into next season."

Ira counters: "I know this speculation has been out there, but I can’t fathom why the Bulls would move on from Nikola Vucevic, even with his expiring contract, for nothing more than a second-round pick (considering Terry Rozier would be viewed as nothing more than a salary in such a deal). At some point, if a contender were to lose a big man to injury, the Bulls could have an upper hand in such a trade, potentially at least secure a first-round pick."