ASK IRA: Will the eye test be a factor at Heat training camp?

Q: Ira, I’ve seen the Tyler Herro pictures and Kyle Lowry videos. But how do the Heat keep them in shape? – Larry.

A: And that is the aspect that many overlook when it comes to players having months during the offseason to prepare for camp. Even last season, after grueling work that also saw him bulk up, Tyler Herro acknowledged he needed to add more muscle to his base. And there hardly was question about Kyle Lowry’s conditioning before he began to miss time last season for family reasons. In fact, more than those two, it will be interesting to see where Caleb Martin stands, now that he is expected to play more in the power rotation. Same with Haywood Highsmith. And even Duncan Robinson spoke of continuing to work on his frame. So while the initial focus might be on Herro and Lowry, there might be more significant gains that had to be made during the offseason.

Q: I wouldn’t be mad if the Heat’s starting power forward is Haywood Highsmith. He offers spacing and he’s a switchable defender, also a sneaky rim protector. – Doc.

A: I’m not saying this is going to happen, only not to overlook him when considering those who could receive minutes in the Heat power rotation. A year ago at this time, no one was talking about Caleb Martin being a rotation player.

Q: What’s going to happen with Jae Crowder? – Seth.

A: This sounds more like a “Ask Suns” question. Because while Jae Crowder might not be enamored with the possibility of the Suns moving him out of their starting lineup in favor of Cam Johnson, there still does not appear to be a realistic avenue, because of the salary cap, for Jae 2.0 with the Heat. At least not at the moment.