Kel'el Ware has been among the few bright spots for the Miami Heat this year. Ware's play on the court has changed Miami's season around. Is Miami a title contender because of Ware play? No, but Miami's play style has been different since Ware has been in the starting lineup.
Ware gives Miami proper rim protection and lob threat. More importantly, Ware play has made life easier for Bam Adebayo. Putting Adebyao at the power forward is a more natural position for him to play, and he can come around defensively instead of switching on everything or protecting the rim. Coming into this draft, Miami had the 15th pick. With guys like Jared McCain and Dalton Knecht available, Miami went with the upside pick.
I was happy with the selection of Ware. He showed at Indiana that he could be a two-way player but wasn't consistent. Ware has the potential to be the steal of the draft if he continues to hit three-pointers. Ware jump shot was in question, but the questions have been answered. Ware has a smooth jump shot and rolls to the rim with authority.
Ware is shooting 41% from three, and against the Orlando Magic went 4 of 4. As an alley-oop threat, Ware has unlocked a much-needed threat into Miami's offense. Ware's development from the start of the season till now has been truly amazing. Ware struggled against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday night. But that's okay.
Ware is a rookie and is going to have bad games. Especially with the Cleveland front, like having Evan Molbey and Jared Allen, it is a tough night. In the long run, having rough games for Ware is positive. It gives the coaching staff a film to show him what he needs to work on.
Rookie seasons have highs and lows. Ware couldn't get regular minutes on the floor a few months ago. Ware is in Miami's starting lineup and finishing games in overtime, getting key defensive stops. Gambling websites have also noticed Ware's play and are listing him as the current favorite to win Rookie of the Year.