Kel'el Ware's dominant night against Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs in preseason action made a big statement to everyone watching: that Ware's talent is undeniable, and he's absolutely got the potential to carve out a role as a long-term starter in this league.
Against San Antonio, Kel'el went for 29 points and 12 rebounds in 26 minutes of action. He was strong defending in pick-and-roll, showed his presence as a vertical threat offensively, and Erik Spoelstra even remarked that he "played with force," a big compliment from one of the best coaches in the game.
This performance came immediately after Spo made a point to harp on some of Ware's shortcomings the last time out. He stated that as strong statistically as any performance is, it's always got to impact winning. Challenging Kel'el to be even better, he stated that he wanted him to be a "plus 20" the next time out.
Ware certainly heard his coach and responded in Wednesday's game. He finished the contest against San Antonio with a plus/minus of +10 in a five-point loss, registering a higher mark than any of Miami's starters.
Kel'el Ware has long-term starter potential
He unquestionably made an impact on winning in several ways. Kel'el was utterly fantastic, even while matched up with Victor Wembanyama. He blocked the Spurs' superstar while defending in isolation, sending social media into a frenzy. Many noted that Ware looked bigger than Wembanyama, while displaying all the traits of an elite and versatile defender against one of the game's best.
The combination of physical tools and execution at both ends of the floor Ware has displayed in flashes proves to us that he is more than capable of being an effective starter for years to come, and maybe even more than that in due time. What's going to need to change is the consistency aspect.
That's ultimately what separates the good players from the great ones at the highest level. We have routinely seen Kel'el respond well when facing criticism. This proves that he has what it takes to put up dominant performances against all levels of competition. The name of the game is simply learning how to go out and do the same thing night in and night out, regardless of how you're feeling or what the stakes are.
But in terms of raw output, we've seen Ware prove in a relatively short amount of time that he has what it takes to be great. He continues to exhibit characteristics of a star, and the Heat are only becoming more aware of the type of player number seven is. Kel'el represents one of the most exciting young frontcourt projects Miami has had in years, and his early flashes suggest this might only be the beginning.