NBA GMs snub the Miami Heat again in yearly survey

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CHARLOTTE, NC – OCTOBER 02: Dwyane Wade #3 of the Miami Heat reacts against the Charlotte Hornets during their game at Spectrum Center on October 2, 2018 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

Head Nod

Two of Miami’s seven placings fit this category, the first of which is, “Which head coach is the best manager/motivator of people?”

Head coach Erik Spoelstra placed fourth in this category, earning votes likely for his handling of the Great Hassan Whiteside Fiasco of ’18.

Plenty of league personnel revert to their childish ways when things take a turn for the worst.

Look at the Minnesota Timberwolves; head coach Tom Thibodeau has done everything but upload his temper tantrum to YouTube, in light of Jimmy Butler’s reveal that “he don’t want to be here,” per the interpretation of long-time teammate Derrick Rose.

Spoelstra, with his calm and collected demeanor, averted a similar PR crisis, embracing Whiteside behind closed doors and mending their relationship over brunch this summer.

Anyone who can effectively motivate a giant on a $100 million contract, is worthy of some praise.

Similarly, the best leader award in which Udonis Haslem earned votes is fitting.

He didn’t place in the top-five (No, that was reserved for LeBron James, Chris Paul, Steph Curry, Al Horford and Damian Lillard), but that he earned votes at all is significant, especially since he is the leader who works from the shadows.

Like Batman.

Haslem played just 14 games last season, down from 16 the year before. GMs, at least in this survey, praised individuals who lead from the hardwood, a skill Haslem is capable of, but hasn’t leaned on for some time.

Always carrying his city on his back, Haslem’s placing was just the right amounts of respect and conservatism given his recent contributions.

What else is worth a head nod?

Spoelstra’s placement on the defensive schemes list.

Unlike the top-five vote-getting teams, which feature an All-Defense recipient, Miami’s defense is anchored by its egalitarian approach, as guys like Tyler Johnson out-muscle powerhouses like Giannis Antetokounmpo in the post.

When Josh Richardson has his breakout, All-Defensive season, expect this ranking to jump to the top of the list.

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