Miami Heat Will Have Some Kinks to Work Out

The 2015-2016 NBA season starts in 45 days, and it would be an understatement to say that Miami Heat fans are ready; after suffering through a rocky year, this summer has proven to be a successful offseason for the organization, reigniting the Heat Nation flame.

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There is no doubt (aside from any unforeseen injuries of course) that things will be different this time around. For starters, the shock of losing LeBron James is no longer an issue. In fact, it seems as though no one is really missing him at all. The empty gaps left behind by James’ exit, along with a handful of other players, have also been filled: Goran Dragic, Amar’e Stoudemire, Gerald Green…just to name a few. Newer members such as Luol Deng and Hassan Whiteside, have had a chance to adjust to the style of play in South Beach. And glaring health concerns, in other words Chris Bosh’s blood clots, have thankfully been taken care of.

However, there are still unanswered questions going into October, the answers to which may have a large impact on the season ahead.

For example, what will Dwyane Wade’s role with this group of guys be?

After leaving many on the edge of their seats, wondering if he would indeed return to the Heat, Wade finally re-signed on a one-year deal. This could be because he wants to wait and see how things go with the team, but there is also the possibility that Wade knows he soon will no longer have enough juice left in him. This would definitely change his position in Miami, taking him from the star player, to a veteran leader. And if he does end up viewing himself in such a way, the team dynamic may actually get even better; having the face of a franchise as a mentor on top of a teammate is certainly a great motivator.

There is also the question of how Whiteside will continue to develop.

Clearly the raw talent is there, there is no disputing that. But the big man has unfortunately shown signs of immaturity as well as a temper, which could become a recipe for disaster if not corrected early on. Whiteside needs to let go of being overlooked in the past, and realize that he is well on his way to becoming a Heat legacy.

Another thing to consider is how surprise draft pick Justise Winslow will pan out.

For now, acquiring the rookie is still a fairy tale come true. With no one expecting him to drop to the No. 10 spot, Miami snagged him in the blink of an eye when it was apparent he was up for grabs. Draft night set the tone for things moving forward, and allowed both the organization and supporters to finally start dreaming big again. But only time will tell to what degree and how quickly Winslow will blossom in the world of professional basketball. His initial level of performance could very well dictate the opportunities given to him for the remainder of the season, which would in turn affect what rotations head coach Erik Spoelstra could rely on.