Mario Chalmers Is Primed For a Breakout Season

Jan 17, 2014; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Miami Heat guard

(15) during the third quarter against the Philadelphia 76ers at the Wells Fargo Center. The Heat defeated the Sixers 101-86. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports

It takes a patient and forgiving soul to appreciate the nuances of Mario Chalmers’ game. He’s a rollercoaster of a player, able to take you to great heights one moment, and then leaving you nauseous and just hoping you’ll live through the experience.

Perhaps it’s a reflection of his six-year career in Miami, where he was thrust into a starting lineup as a rookie, then held the job intermittently over the next few seasons before settling into the dual role of complementary player/verbal piñata as the Heat competed for championships.

It was easy for him to remain in the shadows of his own delusional spotlight when he was a point guard only in name. But with the departure of LeBron James, “Rio” must rise through the ranks and become the floor general he is contractually obligated to be.

No more taking plays off. No more grimace-inducing passes. Consistency is the key for Chalmers to succeed.

Here’s a look at how he can make that happen.