ASK IRA: If Heat had to deal one: Kel’el Ware or Nikola Jovic?

Q: The East is weak enough that pairing Kevin Durant with Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo could make Miami a contender. But trading Kel’el Ware is complicated. Nikola Jović is the better player right now, but Ware’s rookie contract makes him more valuable long-term. While Jović offers more immediate offense and Erik Spoelstra trusts him more, Ware’s size, defensive upside, and ability to space the floor fit better next to Bam. Miami needs depth and three to four reliable 20-point, two-way scorers, which is hard to afford when you have to extend Niko and Tyler Herro.  But these playoffs show that’s what you need to compete in today’s NBA; not a big two or three. In today’s NBA, having versatile bigs like Ware is rare — and he could be the key to unlocking the offense around Durant, Bam Adebayo and Herro while shoring up the defense without putting it all on Bam. Jovic has to be the young player in the trade package and it hurts me to say that because I legit love that dude. – Eddie, Miami.

A: Put it this way, for the right deal the Heat would deal both, likely true even in a deal for Kevin Durant. The NBA, even with the hurdles regarding the cap, tax and aprons, remains a league driven by elite talent. Yes, you need supporting players. But to be the best, you have to have a lineup of the best. That said, Kel’el Ware would appear the better choice to support a quality core, because of his unique defensive presence. That doesn’t mean Nikola Jovic isn’t intriguing, and even more talented. But in the void of first-round picks that are unlocked, you have to trade talent to get talent.

Q: I want to ask about Kyle Anderson. What does the management think about him in the summer now? Trade him? Or keep him? As his fan, I pay close attention to his news.  – W.N.

A: With all due respect to Kyle Anderson and his contributions during the postseason run (particularly in the play-in victory in Atlanta), he likely stands more as a contract than rotation factor at the moment, largely due to his non-guaranteed salary in 2026-27. That said, if he remains, he certainly is capable of contributing.

Q: I just wanted to take a moment to show some love for Kevin Love. I’ve really enjoyed having him on this team – his outlet passes, his rebounding, and most of all, the presence he brings off the court. He’s the ultimate teammate, always engaged on the sidelines, and the kind of guy who can lift the group during tough stretches with his humor and leadership. On top of that, his openness about mental health has made a lasting impact. Sure, the team may have gotten him a few years later than I would’ve liked – but I’m grateful he’s here now. – Ken, Houston.

A: And there always is a place for good people, with Kevin Love’s candor about mental health enriching the Heat and South Florida community.