Although technically the Miami Heat are still in the running to make the 2014-2015 NBA Playoffs, most fans have put aside any hope and are now focusing on the team’s future. Recently, Goran Dragic expressed his desire to remain with the Heat organization, and it seems as though Luol Deng may be following suit.
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Deng, who came to Miami from Cleveland, had a somewhat rocky start to the season. After spending nine years under Chicago Bulls’ head coach Tom Tibodeau, it took a while for the forward to get accustomed to both his new teammates, and a different style of coaching. However, when it was announced that superstar Chris Bosh was out for the year, Deng was forced into a key role for the Heat and currently seems to fit the rotation nicely. Currently he is averaging 14.0 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.9 assists per game.
This summer, as his deal with Miami runs out, Deng will test out free agency. And while many thought that perhaps he would seek greener pastures, for now, the veteran is seriously considering sticking around.
For one, in an ironic twist, he loves the medical staff.
"“I love this organization,” Deng told the Palm Beach Post. “It’s been top-class and everything. I’ve had one of my healthiest years. It was never anything serious. I’ve felt great about the medical staff. When you’ve been in the league 11 years, as soon as you start putting mileage on your body, you want a group that knows your body and you’re comfortable with them. The organization has been great.”"
If only they could also prevent injuries before they happened, too…
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Deng also spoke on the outlook of the team moving into next season, acknowledging that while coming back would include the comfort of familiarity, there would also still be plenty of changes to work through.
"“I think it will be a little easier knowing that guys are more familiar with my game. At the same time, you’ve got Bosh and McRoberts coming back. Training camp will be almost like brand new because you’re starting with Hassan and Goran, if he’s back. It’s another new team. But at least guys are familiar not only with your game, but your personality and where you like to play… it’s all about chemistry and developing together as a unit and making each other better.”"
Obviously though, Deng’s sentiments could change over the next few months, as even he admits that right now, he still has other things on his mind.
"“We could go to Philly and win and the other teams lose and I’m here talking to you about opting in or opting out, then all of a sudden I’ve gotta get my mind right for the Atlanta series. I really don’t want to go there yet. When the season’s over and I sit down and relax, I can start thinking about that stuff.”"
The Heat do still stand a chance to make the playoffs, but unfortunately only by a long shot. In order for them to move out of the tenth seed and into the eighth, here is what needs to happen:
First, the Indiana Pacers must lose at home against the Washington Wizards. Then, the Brooklyn Nets must lose at home to the Orlando Magic. Miami must also win away against the Philadelphia 76ers. And Indiana must then lose away against the Memphis Grizzlies.
Clearly, fate must really be on the Heat’s side.
Miami beat the Magic 100-93 during their last home game of the season. They will take on the 76ers on Wednesday night at 7 p.m. CT.