ASK IRA: Heat: From 15 Strong to 3 Strongest?

Q: In 2006 it was 15 Strong. Now is it 3 really strong? — Jeffrey. A: Based on the approach at the end of the Bulls series, I’d say eight strong, with Mike Miller, Udonis Haslem and Mario Chalmers also handling significant roles. But with Dallas likely to turn to zone defense, James Jones also could emerge as a factor. And don’t overstate the 15 Strong, with Wayne Simien and Earl Barron also claiming championship rings. Q: Hey Ira, in the regular season the Heat were dominated by the Celtics, Bulls and the Mavs. After what we’ve seen the Heat do against the Bulls and Celtics, do you think we have the same in us for the Mavs? — Angel. A: Yes. You don’t change your basic approach during an 82-game series. But in the playoffs, you adjust everything specifically to the opponent. So now the Heat can change the pick-and-roll defense against Dirk, something you don’t do on the second night of a back-to-back in November. Q: What is the position (if ...