Q: Now that the Knicks have extended RJ Barrett to a four-year extension, several media outlets are saying that the Heat may be the frontrunners in the Donovan Mitchell sweepstakes. Time for Pat Riley to work his magic. Do you think Tyler Herro, Duncan Robinson and a couple of first round picks can get it done? – Greg, Jacksonville.

A: Based on Danny Ainge’s gluttony for draft picks, I’m not sure that would be enough to get it done from the Jazz’s perspective. Their preferred capital is unprotected draft picks, preferably from a team that has the possibility of being crap-tastic a few years down the road (which practically is tradition these past two decades for the Knicks). Then, from a Heat perspective, it becomes a matter of how many draft picks along with Tyler Herro are too much? (The Duncan Robinson element is not as significant for the Heat, with the presence of Max Strus, but I’m not sure Utah would want to take on such a contract.) Again, you can argue that Donovan Mitchell is one draft pick better than Tyler. But two (or more)? In no way would I cast the Heat, with their middling pool of draft picks, favorites for Donovan. A chance? Certainly until Tyler is extended. But favorites? That’s overstating.

Q: Now that Kevin Durant is staying with the Nets and with Miami’s lack of draft assets to acquire Donovan Mitchell from Utah, what’s the hold up on extending Tyler Herro? His price may go up if he hits free agency and create a disgruntled budding star on the roster. – Rod.

A: Because the Heat’s obligation is to keep available as many avenues as possible to improve the roster. That is why there are deadlines. And with Tyle Herro, the deadline for an extension is Oct. 18. So why eliminate six weeks of possibilities? Tyler has been a professional now for three seasons. He certainly has to appreciate it is a business. And one way or the other, he’ll get paid.

Q: I mean maybe it’s as simple as giving Tyler Herro the starting nod this year. He averaged 21 a game off the bench. Maybe the answer solved with this puzzle is by starting Herro. – Douglas.

A: And that’s the rub, be it trade considerations or extension talk, determining what Tyler Herro would be as a starter. So far he has started only 33 of his 175 regular-season games, with no more than 15 starts in a season. By contrast, the Knicks extended RJ Barrett after he had started at least 70 games in each of the past two seasons. And, of course, Donovan Mitchell has been a career starter, starting every game since his second season.

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