Q: Hello Ira, as this Miami Heat team is presently constructed, which five players do you believe would make up the most effective starting unit, and who are the first three Heat players off the bench and why? – Carlos, West Park.

A: I’m going to answer your question . . . sort of. I don’t think it matters who starts, with the Heat and other teams utilizing token starters for years. So instead, let’s look at the rotation and the closing lineup. Guaranteed of roster minutes are Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, Kyle Lowry and Tyler Herro. That’s four. I would think, based on the Heat’s offseason approach and how last season ended, you also can safety factor in Max Strus, Caleb Martin and Victor Oladipo to bring the total to seven. From there, I would think one more big man (either Omer Yurtseven or Dewayne Dedmon) and then perhaps the hot hand among Gabe Vincent, Duncan Robinson or maybe even Haywood Highsmith. As for closing time, until somewhat shows otherwise, it well could be Adebayo, Butler, Oladipo, Herro and Lowry.

Q: Ira, I don’t mind a Udonis Haslem return. Fifteenth-man of the Year Award. – Gary, Miami.

A: But would you say that to his face? As it is, because of the Heat’s position against the luxury tax, Udonis Haslem would be the Heat’s 14th man this season, with the Heat unable to go 15 deep until later in the season. So, as always, it comes down to weighing what you otherwise might mine from that roster spot. Of course, the Heat’s thinking long has been that it actually will be a 16-player roster to start the season, in light of the way they value their two-way players.

Q: I’d much rather hear Eric Reid and John Crotty call our games because listening to national broadcasters always feels like you’re watching the opponents’ homers call the game. – Mike, Austin, Texas.

A: See, so there is a silver lining as the national networks look elsewhere. Basically, the NBA put the Heat into Kaboom! overdrive.

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