Take 1: Arroyo Speaks His Mind 

It's not meant in any way as an insult. In fact, it's probably much closer to being a badge of honor. But the truth of the matter is this: The best point guard on the Heat's roster has been the one it signed off the street. Carlos Arroyo has proved time and time again that he's the best there is at the position for now, although he might not be the long-term solution at point guard.

Read more on the Herald's main sports site later about how Arroyo stood his ground by standing up to Dwyane Wade during a critical stretch in Monday's victory against the Nets. Arroyo then came right back and tossed that sick alley-oop to Wade to show that chemistry is building between them. Arroyo may be somewhat of a loner in the Heat's locker room, in part, because he doesn't necessarily gravitate to one clique or another. But he's certainly commanded the respect of his teammates because of his passion and swagger.

"I've been looking forward to this moment all year, and I'm just trying to take advantage of it," Arroyo said of his opportunity to guide the team into the playoffs as the starting point guard. "We all understand that winning is the bottom line around here. Nobody should take anything personal. This chemistry with me and Dwyane is only going to keep getting better as we play more with each other the rest of the way."

Take 2: Injury Update

The Heat had a voluntary workout in Chicago on Tuesday. But the biggest thing the team accomplished was getting plenty of treatment and rest for the growing number of banged-up players. The injury list was pretty extensive coming out of Monday's game.

Udonis Haslem, who missed Monday's game with a sprained right ankle, will be a game-time decision for Thursday's matchup against the Bulls. Haslem has played through all kinds of injuries that would have knocked most other players out of action, so you know this ankle deal has to be serious.

Wade, who sustained a bruised quad muscle against the Nets, also took extensive treatment. He sustained the injury in the third quarter, but came back to finish the game. Wade is expected to play against the Bulls, who indeed will be geared up to shut him down after the heated and physical finish in the victory against Chicago in Miami two weeks ago. Quentin Richardson and Jermaine O'Neal both had ankle injuries addressed Tuesday but are expected to play. The Heat will certainly need all of its key players available against the Bulls, who have won two in a row since getting Derrick Rose (wrist) and Joakim Noah (foot) back from injuries.

Take 3: Heat Contributes to Nets Misery

As if it wasn't bad enough that New Jersey extended its franchise-record losing streak to 14 games in Monday's loss to the Heat, the Nets took another public beating when CEO Brett Yormark foolishly got into a shouting match with a fan sitting courtside with a bag over his head.

Don't be surprised if Yormark made a martyr of the Bagman Fan. A handful of the dozen or so fans who show up for the next game will be wearing bags in protest. Considering the Nets could play most of their games in a high school gym these days because of embarrassing low turnouts, Yormark should be welcoming anyone who walks through the doors at the IZOD Center. And frankly, with the way that franchise has been going recently, it should be the front-office staff wearing the bags to hide from fans.

Take 4: Tito's Revolution

With TNT studio hosts Charles Barkley and Kenny Smith scheduled to take their show on the road and broadcast from the United Center for Thursday's Heat-Bulls game, this entire Tito episode should come to a head. Barkley and Smith have gotten plenty jabs in on the Heat's supporting cast over the past two seasons, referring to Wade as "Michael Jackson playing with a bunch of Tito Jacksons."

Michael Beasley only gave the studio crew more fuel to add to the fire with a couple of sub-par performances after he called out Barkley for making the comments. Kenny Smith even went as far as to suggest Tito - and not Beasley - should be the one offended by the reference. Someone is going to have eat crow after Thursday's game. At the very least, there should be a Tito truce. 

(For live news, notes and updates on the Heat, follow me on Twitter @ twitter.com/wallacesports. To post a question or join our live Heat chat each Thursday from 1-2 p.m., click here.)

Jermaine O'Neal broke his nose. Udonis Haslem continued to break his old mold. And Dwyane Wade simply broke the spirits of his hometown Chicago Bulls. It all culminated in a 95-87 victory for the Heat that was secured Sunday by its lock-down defense.

Miami is 3-0 for the first time since it went 4-0 to open the 2004-05 season. Along the way Sunday, Wade became the first player in a Heat uniform to reach 10,000 career points. But the Heat did it again with balance and defense.

Wade scored 25 points to lead four Heat players in double figures. And Miami, which entered Sunday leading the league in field-goal percentage defense, provided another defensive gem. The Bulls shot just 40.9 percent from the field and missed 15 of its final 21 shots.

The Heat is hot for now. And the solid start through three games is a confidence boost, especially coming off an injury-riddled 2-5 campaign in the preseason.

"It gives us that edge that we can be one of the best teams in the NBA," forward Michael Beasley said. "It's early, there are 79 (games) to go, but I think we are getting off to a great start."

D. WADE'S DOINGS: Wade led the way with 25 points on 8 of 19 shooting from the field and an 8 of 10 effort from the free-throw line. But his two biggest plays after that sick, double-reverse layup in the lane were the two assists late in the fourth. Yes, Wade did his best damage as a playmaker on this night. He set up Quentin Richardson in the corner for a huge 3-pointer that put Miami ahead 89-83 with 1:40 left. Wade again drew defenders moments later and found Haslem on the baseline for a jumper that sealed it.

TURNING POINT: That came with 4:14 left, when Jermaine O'Neal converted a layup and free throw to bring the Heat back from a five-point deficit in the fourth. The play put the Heat ahead 82-80 and was the biggest contribution from O'Neal, who wasn't as effective Sunday as he had been in the previous two wins when he had 22 points and 12 rebounds in both. But the three-point play gave Miami momentum again and set up a tough, slugfest of a finish.

WINNING EDGE: Despite some early problems with turnovers, it's hard to lose when you hold a team to 17 points in the fourth quarter and to just one field goal in the game's final four minutes. That's what the Heat did to Chicago on Sunday. John Salmons' 3-pointer was the lone Chicago basket down the stretch.

KEY CONTRIBUTION: Give it up for the Heat's bench. Haslem, Joel Anthony, Carlos Arroyo and Dorell Wright combined for 35 points, 15 rebounds, five blocks and four assists. The second unit, which played without shooting specialist Daequan Cook (shoulder injury) was 16 of 24 from the field. Haslem led the bench with 19 points and 11 rebounds.

NEXT UP: Suns at Heat, Tuesday, 7:30 - AmericanAirlines Arena

(For live news, notes and updates on the Heat, follow me on Twitter @ twitter.com/wallacesports. To post a question or join our live Heat chat each Thursday from 1-2 p.m., click here.)

We know he's confident. Mario Chalmers entered the league a year ago with a chip on his shoulder after slipping to the second round of the draft, and refused to take a back seat to any guard picked ahead of him.

We know he's durable. Although he only had to beat out a barely-wanted Marcus Banks, a still-rehabbing Shaun Livingston and a seldom-used Chris Quinn, Chalmers (pictured right) grabbed the starting job last season and became the only rookie in Heat history to start every regular season and playoff game.

We know he's valued. Why else would Heat president Pat Riley go as far as to proclaim that he wouldn't bring in anyone to start ahead of Chalmers, despite the team's significant void of point guard depth? That means - barring a last-minute change of plans - bypassing a group of proven veterans that consists of Ty Lue, Brevin Knight, Flip Murray, Jamaal Tinsley and just-off-the-market Allen Iverson.

Yes, we know plenty about Chalmers. But there's at least one thing we don't. And that is whether or not he's clearly - beyond a reasonable doubt - the solid, steady, clutch point guard this franchise will place in the backcourt alongside Dwyane Wade for the foreseeable future?

This season will go a long way in determining that answer. I still find it a bit strange that Chalmers went from having to be taught the point guard position at this level a year ago to becoming practically untouchable and essentially irreplaceable in just the span of 12 months.

And that leaves the Heat in a curious situation entering camp just two weeks from now. Chalmers and Quinn are the only two point guards under contract. Riley said last week that Wade will again handle significant time at the position late in games and in crisis situations.

That sets up a huge gamble for the Heat. An injury to Chalmers means far more minutes for Wade. An injury to Wade means the season is done, during a contract year for your franchise player to boot. Riley is a risk taker. But he ain't crazy, which is why I think he will address needs at the position via a trade or free agent signing at some point before the start of the season.

If Chalmers (pictured left, driving against Jameer Nelson) continues to develop, there's no question he could be a solid starter in this league for a long time alongside Wade, assuming Wade re-ups as expected next summer in free agency. Remember, greatness doesn't need spectacular as a sidekick to win. Simply solid would do.

That's why Jordan worked so well with Paxson and Armstrong. It's why Kobe gets it done with Fisher. Between now and the Sept. 28 start of training camp, we will rank how the Heat stacks up in the East at all five starting positions, the bench and coaching. Let's start at point guard, where I've got Chalmers ranked 10th in the East entering the season, based on production, potential, expected progress, overall impact and durability among other factors. Here's where the Heat stacks up at the position.

1. Devin Harris (pictured right), Nets. 2. Gilbert Arenas, Wizards. 3. Derrick Rose, Bulls. 4. Rajon Rondo, Celtics. 5. Jameer Nelson, Magic. 6. Mo Milliams, Cavs. 7. Jose Calderon, Raptors. 8. Mike Bibby, Hawks. 9. Rodney Stuckey, Pistons. 10. Mario Chalmers, Heat. 11. Raymond Felton, Bobcats. 12. T.J. Ford, Pacers. 13. Chris Duhon, Knicks. 14. Luke Ridnour, Bucks. 15 Lou Williams, Sixers.

If Chalmers makes the sort of second-year progress the Heat is expecting, Miami will be fine at the position. But if the team enters the season as is at the point, Mario will have minimal margin for error.

(For live news, notes and updates on the Heat, follow me on Twitter @ twitter.com/wallacesports. To post a question or join our live Heat chat each Thursday from 1-2 p.m., click here.)

One of the Miami Heat's biggest strengths last season was also its biggest weakness.

Fluidity. The playing rotation was never settled. Coach Erik Spoelstra intended to eventually establish a pecking order that would have established an eight-player group night in and night out. Eventually he gave up and went with an all-hands-on-deck approach.

In part, the problem was that some of the available hands were unable to stay healthy or productive enough to hold down a solid role. Another issue was that Spoelstra (right) struggled as a first-year coach to find his way through this rotation situation and never closed the door on any possibility - or player. Pat Riley's hand-picked successor couldn't have been more anti-Riley in this regard.

It was an approach that created the Michael Beasley debate and - ultimately - the Michael Beasley/Udonis Haslem dilemma. It cleared the way for the Yakhouba Diawara experiment, one that saw him go from the inactive list one week and into the starting lineup the next, and back into street clothes the following. It allowed for the Jamaal Magloire opportunity, one that saw the Big Cat embrace the role of resident banger/enforcer when given a shot to shake off the bench-induced rigor mortis.

You thought you were done in December with Chris Quinn. Instead, you met him again in March.

And it all essentially left nothing resolved. 

That's one reason the Heat will open training camp five weeks from now facing far more questions than answers regarding its roster and roles.

Is this team in "End Now" mode, with more than $40 million in expiring contracts coming off the books after this season? Or is it in "Win Now" mode, with Wade in the midst of his prime years heading into free agency uncertainty next summer? We certainly know - based on this offseason - that Miami isn't in "Spend Now" mode, despite its long-shot pursuit of Lamar Odom, because the plan has always been to wait, to cash in and splurge in the summer of 2010?

So where does that leave the Heat right now? With essentially 14 players in the mix, 13 under contract, a 12-man "active" roster that will almost certainly change frequently on game night and with about 11 players who are candidates to find themselves as key contributors one week and among the missing on the back of a carton of milk the next.

With a little more than a month to go before camp opens, we rank the Heat's roster - as it currently stands - based on a combination of value to the team, expectations, ability and priority in the pecking order entering the Sept. 28 start of training camp.

14. Chris Quinn - The team's handling of Quinn has been questionable. This summer has been no exception. He was given a $1.1 million option as part of last year's contract to return this season almost certainly as a third-string PG. It's a deal that ultimately might prevent the Heat from adding a much-needed, experienced veteran.

13. Dorell Wright - It's officially breakthrough or bust for Wright. There's no more middle ground for the 2004 first-round pick who will earn $2.7  million this season, which equates to a $5.4 million hit when factoring the luxury-tax penalty. And who said Miami didn't spend its mid-level exception this summer?

12. Pat Beverley - The Heat invested $1.5 million to acquire him in the second round of the June draft. For that alone, he's got to be in the plans - although he remains unsigned. The fact that Quinn and Beverley are this deep on the board shows you just how big of a void there is with the PG depth. 

11. Yakhouba Diawara- Also a member of "The Expirings," Diawara is essentially a roster mistress. Spoelstra couldn't get enough of the defensive-minded small forward one moment. The next, Khouba was shoved aside and found himself retrieving in-game stats for coaches during timeouts last season. 

10. Joel Anthony - It's Year 3 of the Joel Project. There isn't a teammates he hasn't embarrassed with a ferocious dunk or block in practice. But in games, there isn't a low-post entry pass he hasn't been able to fumble away. The shot-blocker remains as raw as Eddie Murphy in that purple leather suit in 1987.

9. Jamaal Magloire - Arguably the best offseason move the Heat made was bringing back the Big Cat. Yes, it's been that kind of summer. Still, D. Wade got back his bodyguard and the Heat got back an intimidating defender and rebounder for those moments Jermaine O'Neal feels an indifference toward loose balls.

8. Quentin Richardson- Q may have an opportunity to start at SF for the simple fact that no one else has stepped up yet. Trading Mark Blount for someone who could sing the national anthem every night would have been a productive trade for Miami. So getting a double-figure scorer in Richardson should almost register a coup.

7. Daequan Cook- Last year's 3-point All-Star shootout champ may be nearing a crossroads. The mid-first-round draft status, the inconsistent play and the nagging injury concerns could put Cook (above, left) on course for Dorellwrightville instead of a key rotation role if he doesn't get it going early this season. 

6. James Jones- Miam's 2008 top free-agent pickup missed most of last season with a wrist injury that has altered his stroke. He finished as the starting SF when since-departed Jamario Moon was hurt. Jones must prove he is what the Heat thought he was when he got that 5-year partially guaranteed deal. 

5. Udonis Haslem- Debate, if you must, UD's value. Argue that he is standing in the way of Michael Beasley's development if he continues to start at power forward. But no one on the team has sacrificed as much to focus almost exclusively on the dirty work, played through as many injuries and has exhausted every ounce of his ability as Haslem (left, with Beasley in background). 

4. Mario Chalmers - Riley has put a lot of faith and trust in the second-year point guard. Enough to say he wouldn't sign anyone to start ahead of Chalmers, despite glaring needs, this summer. That puts a ton of pressure on Chalmers. Sure, Wade handles the ball a lot. But Mario's essentially all there is at PG on the roster. 

3. Jermaine O'Neal - Jermaine has declined media interviews this summer to focus on getting healthy. Fine. Actions speak much louder than words. And his action on the court will determine how much of a contender Miami will be this season. Set to collect $23 million this season in the final year of his deal, Jermaine is being paid like a superstar. He needs to perform at something close to an All-Star - or at least the second-best center in the Southeast Division. 

2. Michael Beasley - Regardless of which side you fall on the Beasley debate, here's what you need to ask yourself about last year's No. 2 overall pick: If - and it's a colossal IF - Wade does the unthinkable and bounces next summer as a free agent, can Beasley anchor the franchise through what is sure to be a difficult regrouping, rebuilding, rehabilitation process? Could he offer the stability Chris Paul does in New Orleans? The production and promise Kevin Durant exudes in Oklahoma City? The leadership, steadiness and upside Derrick Rose already shows in Chi-town? I don't think Beasley has convinced the Heat of any of this yet. This season may go a long way in doing so. 

1. Dwyane Wade - From movie deals to real estate contracts to new shoe endorsements, D. Wade has put his signature on seemingly every binding document placed before him this summer. Except one: That contract extension to commit long-term right now to the Miami Heat. Because of the power and influence he holds at this moment, Wade is the most important person in the history of the franchise. If he walks next summer as a free agent, the Heat must start from scratch. Almost in the form of 1988 all over again as far as NBA relevance. Pat Riley's reputation would take a huge hit. Because it would not only mean the Hall of Famer ended his coaching career with the worst season in franchise history two seasons ago, he would also be the executive who oversaw Wade's departure after gambling the franchise's future on 2010. Unless you can rebound with a LeBron James or Kobe Bryant signing, no amount of cap space could buy back the credibility of the franchise. Having said all of that, Wade only has to do three things to make this all work out the way it should for Miami: Avoid a major injury this season, get the Heat back into the playoffs to make things interesting and re-sign for $120 million over six years next summer.

(For live news, notes and updates on the Heat, follow me on Twitter @ twitter.com/wallacesports. To post a question or join our live Heat chat each Thursday from 1-2 p.m., click here.)

 

This has to be eating away at Heat president Pat Riley.

The East is rebuilding and reloading around him right now, while the Heat maintains its position with a 2010 view of the landscape.

In just the past few days, Shaq has gone to Cleveland to help bolster LeBron James' front line, one that fell flat in the Eastern Conference Finals.

Within the Heat's division, Washington's Gilbert Arenas is getting healthy and the Wizards just got deeper by trading for Randy Foye and Mike Miller. Atlanta, the team that eliminated Miami from the playoffs, just got a bit more explosive by adding Heat headache Jamal Crawford.

The entire conference - or at least the teams that matter - all seem to be on the move. Riley has said he would speed up the team's roster overhaul, but not before he has Dwyane Wade's signature on a contract extension, which could happen as early as July 12. Otherwise, things will have to wait a year.

Although the Heat's stated goal is to avoid doing anything that would jeopardize its flexibility during the mega free agency period of 2010, there are some solid moves the team can make to improve right now.

With the NBA Draft set to start in a few hours, here are three moves I would consider making if I'm the Heat. They would make the team better next season. A few might send the team a bit deeper into the luxury tax for a year, but none of them would compromise the team's 2010 spending flexibility.

DEAL 1: Trade Dorell Wright, James Jones and the 43rd overall pick tonight (the $4.2 million trade exception)to the Clippers for Marcus Camby. (UPDATE - I stand corrected. I initially had the Heat sending its $4.2 million trade exception instead of Jones in this deal, but upon further review, such exceptions cannot be combined in a deal with another player. It has to be a separate transaction) The skinny: Camby is on a convenient contract that expires after the season. He is also still a dominant shot-blocker and rebounder who would be insurance for Jermaine O'neal. Both have had injury issues the past few seasons. Both are off the books at season's end. But Miami, for now, has absolutely nothing in the post behind O'Neal. The Clippers get to clear out room for Blake Griffin. If the Heat could find some way to ship either its $4.2 million or $800,000 trade exceptions in a side deal, it would sweeten the pot for the Clippers. It's also money the Heat probably wouldn't use otherwise. Wright gets to go home for a fresh start to a career that never materialized in Miami after he was taken with the 19th pick in 2004. Jones would be another kick-out option for Baron Davis who could also balance the floor for an improved inside attack. Plus, Jones has an option-friendly deal after next season that could be terminated with a reduced guarantee.

DEAL 2: Trade Mark Blount and Daequan Cook and the 43rd pick to Indiana for Marquis Daniels and Jarrett Jack. The skinny: The Heat gets back two playmaking-type perimeter players (Jack, a young backup PG to push Mario Chalmers. Daniels, a poor man's Josh Howard) and gives up very little aside from Cook's promise. There are contract options that make this a comfortable move for the Heat. What does it do for Indiana? Blount reunites with Jim O'Brien, the coach that got plenty out of him in Boston. Cook's shooting - Blount's, too - would be tailor made for Indiana's inside-out system. The moves would also settle the point guard logjam in Indiana and also give first-round pick Brandon Rush a chance to develop faster.

DEAL 3: This one hurts because I truly respect what Udonis Haslem means to this team. He's taken over for Zo as the heart and soul of the organization. However, trade Haslem and the 43rd pick to Memphis for Mike Conley and Marc Gasol. The skinny: Again contract options on both Conley and Gasol give the Heat an out if necessary. But Conley, who could use a fresh start after a turbulent two years in Memphis, is another young guard who could challenge Mario. The Griz could also use the 43rd pick to take a point guard, move O.J. Mayo to the point or bring in a veteran with their cap space. Gasol is a skilled, big body and a banger. But if the Griz take Hasheem Thabeet at No. 2 tonight, there won't be room for Thabeet, Darko and Gasol. Haslem would give the young and promising Grizzlies the proven, rugged, veteran power forward who brings a winner's resume. This deal also opens the gates for Michael Beasley to take over in Miami at forward. Haslem has an expiring contract and could also consider coming back to his hometown team a year from now.

Pat might possibly have a lot on his plate tonight. Or, he could stand pat and maintain the patient approach, with a focus squarely on 2010.

(For live news, notes and updates on the Heat, follow me on Twitter @ twitter.com/wallacesports)

CHICAGO - Apparently, there are mulligans in the NBA.

After squandering a 14-point lead and committing a costly turnover in the final seconds on an inbounds play, Wade made up for his mistake to get the ball back and set Shawn Marion up for the winning dunk with 1.1 second left in a 95-93 victory over the Bulls.

The Heat recovered from the meltdown just in time. As a result, the Heat (28-24) enters the break with 19 more victories than it had at this point last season. The 28 wins are also the Heat's most at the break since the 2005-06 season, when it went on to win an NBA title.

Player of the Game: Udonis Haslem - While Wade, Marion and Michael Beasley had the better numbers, I'm not sure if the Heat could have held on had it not been for Udonis Haslem's emotional tirade during a timeout with three minutes left. Haslem lit into the team and demanded accountability. He's done this before, but never to this degree. It's a damn shame what happened to Erik Spoelstra's clipboard as a result. With his arms flailing and head twisting, Haslem deplored his team to step up and make plays. "I lost myself, blacked out," Haslem said. "When I came to, the clipboard was in half." Apparently, the Heat came to, too. It went on to collect a much-needed victory.

Surprise, Surprise: Michael Beasley - So long slump. Beasley was 9 of 10 from the field with 21 points, seven rebounds and three assists in 31 minutes. It was his most extended playing time in several games. His production had just as much to do with the victory as anyone's. He carried the Heat during the third quarter with 13 points. The Heat built a 14-point lead. Beasley also had three huge assists in the fourth quarter. But then, he went to the bench in favor of Marion. On this night, the move worked. Spoelstra said he made the switch to get more experience on the court.

Tough Night: Joel Anthony - Wasn't really a factor defensively. Of course, it's hard to be when you play only 10 minutes. The Heat actually went without a center for much of the second half. There were times when James Jones, Michael Beasley, Shawn Marion and Udonis Haslem each split time manning the middle. Anthony had two points, 1 rebound and no blocks. Jamaal Magloire didn't play.

Shut 'em Down: Derrick Rose - Curiously, Rose was nowhere to be found in the fourth quarter. He had 18 points, but had only four in the fourth, with one assist and one turnover in five minutes. Ben Gordon lit the Heat up for 34 points, but Rose, for some reason, was on the bench in key moments.

Stat of the Night: 92.3% - That's what the Heat shot from the free-throw line. Miami was 12 of 13. It needed almost every one of them on a night when the Bulls were 30 of 35 from the line.

That Says It All: "The game didn't go exactly the way we wanted, especially during that last minute. It's never as easy as it looks. It's not how we drew it up," - Heat coach Erik Spoelstra on the game-winning inbounds play that led to Marion's dunk.

Next Up: Wednesday - Minnesota at Miami, 7:30 p.m. AmericanAirlines Arena

First, Happy Holidays to all and a reminder that the Heat chat will go on as scheduled at 1 p.m., today, Thursday. http://www.miamiherald.com/qna/forum/heat_chat/index.html

Sure the Heat is pleased to be 15-12, have a healthy Dwyane Wade and a future of the franchise in rookie Michael Beasley. But looking at the last six months perhaps the biggest thing to be thankful for  was the Heat being able to trade up for Mario Chalmers in the second round. If Minnesota hadn't agreed to let the Heat trade up we could be sitting here today talking about how the Heat is looking for its point guard of the future. Perhaps another team would have made a trade with the Heat, but it's really unlikely that Chalmers would have fallen beyond the top few picks in the second round.

"There were teams trying to trade for him late in the first round," said Kansas assistant Joe Dooley, who recruited Chalmers to Kansas and worked closely with him in his three years in Lawrence.

Chalmers has started all 27 games for the Heat and been sound playing alongside Wade. Sure he has his moments but so far he's proven to be one of the top rookie point guards. He has guarded everyone from Tony Parker, Devin Harris, Chris Paul to Kobe Bryant and Derek Fisher, but his next matchup is also worth watching. He'll be guarding top overall pick Derrick Rose.

Chalmers hit the game-tying three pointer in the national title game that sent Kansas to overtime and ultimately beat Memphis. That was the first time Chalmers and Rose had ever played against each other. They faced each other in Orlando in the Summer League, but this will be more meaningful because it will be televised nationally Friday (ESPN, 5 p.m.) and Chalmers is eager to continue proving that teams made a mistake by allowing him to fall to No. 34 in the draft.

Rookie Michael Beasley, who was passed over by Chicago and wants to have a big game too, said Chalmers still talks about the draft snub and finds it a constant source of inspiration. Wade gushed about Rose and said that the rookie is more athletic than he is, but Wade also raved about Chalmers and said his teammate deserves more recognition for his performance thus far.   

With the Olympics approaching in a couple of weeks, tonight's exhibition between the USA and Canadian men's basketball teams serves as an intriguing appetizer for Heat fans.

On display will be Heat guard Dwyane Wade, who will be playing in his first sort-of-meaningful game since he was shut down in March to address knee problems. With LeBron James expected to be held out of tonight's exhibition, Wade could see significant action - perhaps even as a starter.

Also on display will be Heat center Joel Anthony, who is expected to be in the starting lineup for Canada. With Sam Dalembert's recent dismissal from the team, Anthony is expected to have a more prominent role for Canada. The Heat's decision to allow Anthony to participate in Canada's Olympic bid was a smart one. And the team's decision this month to guarantee his contract for next season was an even smarter one, considering Miami's low numbers at the center spot.

In Wade's case, this is an opportunity to showcase his return to health. He certainly looks a lot less bulky than he did much of last season. Or maybe it's just that new bald dome he's sporting. Either way, his participation is sure to have Heat fans crossing their fingers and hoping for sustained health.

In Anthony's case, the hope is that he continues to develop along this rapid pace. A year ago, it was fair to question if he even belonged on the Heat's summer league team. His hands were bad, his timing worse and his offense non-existent. A year later, he's posting double-doubles for Canada and has followed up on a strong finish to the season - one that included an impressive late-season outing against Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard.

I asked Joel, whose most developed NBA talent is his shot-blocking ability, earlier this summer how he would respond defensively if Canada were to face Team USA and if Wade were to drive at him in the lane. Anthony's response? "It'll be just like at practice when we're out there. He'd do what he does best, and I'd try to do what I do (best) and stop him. It'll be a great opportunity."

This and That ...

... The Heat announced another pickup from its summer league roster. The team named Chad Kammerer as an assistant coach on Friday, continuing an offseason staff makeover that began with Pat Riley leaving the bench to work in his role exclusively as team president. Kammerer, the son of Heat VP of player development Chet Kammerer, had worked in the Heat's scouting department. He also spent the past few seasons as an assistant on the team's summer league entry. Erik Spoelstra took over for Riley in April and the Heat hired David Fizdale from the Hawks as an assistant.

... While No. 1 draft pick Derrick Rose has reached an agreement on a shoe endorsement deal with Adidas, Heat forward and second overall pick Michael Beasley continues to negotiate with companies for his own deal. Adidas had been one of at least three shoe companies Beasley has been in talks with on a deal. But several industry analysts believe this year's draft class lacks some of the endorsement appeal of previous classes and might struggle to land the same lucrative deals handed out in recent years. 

Sights and sounds from Orlando in the aftermath of the Heat's 94-70 victory over the Bulls in the summer debuts of top pick Derrick Rose and second pick Michael Beasley.

Beasley was about as silly after the game as he was effective during it, closing with 28 points, 9 rebounds, two assists and one block in 23 minutes.

Yes, it was summer league. But don't discount the significance of his first NBA test. He dominated Tyrus Thomas and Joakim Noah most of the night. And both are long and athletic frontline players who are regulars in the Bulls' regular-season rotation.

Beasley had three And-1s, and could have finished with as many as five if he hit a couple more free throws. But he was solid from the line, too, going 9 of 12 to offset a not-too-shabby 9 of 21 clip from the field. Still, Beasley was his own worst critic afterward, grading himself a "C" and suggesting he's simply trying to make the team.

Keith Askins, who is coaching the summer league squad, had plenty of good things to say about Beasley and second-round pick Marion Chalmers. But he also offered some constructive criticism, things Beasley will be asked to work on as the five-games-in-five-days-stretch continues Tuesday afternoon. He moves on from Thomas and Noah to face rookie lottery pick Brook Lopez, who was the top center in the draft.

"I'd like to see him finish stronger," Askins said. "He has a tendency to go in with the finger roll. I'd like to see him finish over the top (dunking). Once he starts playing, he'll see guys are bigger and they're quick and they jump in this league - play above the rim. He'll get there."

ON FREE AGENCY ...

Heat president Pat Riley was fashionably late to Monday's game after flying in from Los Angeles. He arrived in just enough time to miss Beasley's slow start but catch every second of his strong finish.

We caught up with Riley at halftime, who is preoccupied these days with finding a few more pieces to place around Beasley and star guard Dwyane Wade through free agency and trades. And Riley was Riley, smoothly speaking in circles at times but offering some insight on the Heat's direction.

That's if you believe what he's saying.

With free agents clear to sign new deals first thing Wednesday, Riley suggested the Heat would make its first round of offers on the eve before the league's moratorium is lifted and the new salary cap and exceptions are announced.

The plan, Riley said, is to start building the Heat's bench, which, based on one translation, means that any offers the Heat makes might be to lower-key options at point guard and center.

"We'll go slowly," Riley said. "Little by little. Find players who fit. See what's out there."

If free agency is the route, there are at least names out there that remain intriguing to the Heat. At point guard: Keyon Dooling and Jannero Pargo. At center: Kwame Brown  and Kurt Thomas. Shooters/defenders: James Jones and Mickael Pietrus.

Riley spent almost the second half Monday sitting beside Magic coach and former Heat coach Stan Van Gundy, who figures to be competing with the Heat, among others, to retain Dooling's services. Maybe it was a coincidence. Maybe not.

As it stands, Riley said career backup Marcus Banks would enter training camp as the Heat's starter, with Chalmers running second on the depth chart. The Heat has extended a minimum qualifying offer to third-year guard Chris Quinn, who finished the season playing the bulk of the PG minutes.

Riley then back-peddled  backpedaled some on his previous stance of being dead-set against making a major move or taking on any long-term deals before the summer of 2010, when Wade, LeBron James, Chris Bosh and Amare Stoudemire could become free agents.

"We've said that because that's when our guy (comes) up," Riley said, referring to Wade's opt-out clause. "But I don't care if its (2009) or (2010). We could make a move today, and say forget that."

But for such a move to take place, it would almost certainly have to involve parting with Shawn Marion and his $17.8 million expiring contract.

As far as the Heat's own free agents are concerned, Riley said he's had conversations with the agents for guard Jason Williams and swingman Ricky Davis, but that the two would be kept in a holding pattern for now until the Heat explores other options.

Heat restricted free agent forward Dorell Wright showed up in Orlando for Monday's games. He said he still hopes to remain with the Heat, which extended him a $2.4 million qualifying offer. But Wright, coming off season-ending knee surgery, also said he's aware of interest from some other teams.

BOX SCORE BONUS

These kind of games are tailor made for do-it-all journeymen such as Stephane Lasme. He was the most impressive Heat player on Monday not named Beasley or Chalmers. Lasme came off the bench and stuffed the stat sheet with 10 points, five rebounds, four blocks, three steals and one assist.

One glaring void is at center, where David Padgett was the lone natural big man to play. With Marcus Campbell injured and Anthony King not yet acclimated to the Heat's system, there are few other options at center. That was one of the reasons Beasley spent significant time at center, with Lasme or Josh Duncan playing at power forward. Padgett had four points, four rebounds and five fouls in 14 minutes of action in his debut. He'll need to do far more.

New Heat forward and co-face of the franchise Michael Beasley said all of the right things during his introductory press conference on the floor at AmericanAirlines Arena.

He launched his Heat career with five words that sounded more like a prediction than a wish: "Lets win us another championship," he said at the end of his opening statement.

Here are a few other Beasley tidbits from Friday.

Beasley on the relief of finally getting to his NBA city ... "I'm just happy to be here. Obviously, it's a great organization, great team, great fans. I want to be here for 15 or 20 years if I can play that long."

Beasley on reality setting in ... "All of my thoughts are just in a whirlwind right now. It's all about what's coming next. How I might play. I was nervous. I'm still nervous. I knew that I might have been the No. 1 or No. 2 pick for a long time. But reality has set in and my life is changing dramatically."

Beasley on speculation that Miami had questions about his character and might trade him ... "Coach told me not to pay any attention to what was said in the media. But it was hard. It was kind of hard to put aside all that's been said. I was just hoping that it would play out well and it did."

Beasley on being passed over by the Bulls to fall to No. 2 ... "I'm very competitive. But it all worked out for the better. I just have to prove to everyone that I'm the best player in this draft."

Beasley on partnering with Dwyane Wade, although he had yet to hear from Wade ... "I love watching Dwyane Wade. He's a great player. A Finals MVP. He won a championship. And it's a dream come true to be in the same organization with a player like that."

Beasley on his impact with the Heat ... "I just want to come into this organization and make an impact early. I'd like to be the go-to guy. I'm going to do whatever it takes. Rebound. Loose balls. Whatever it takes."

Beasley on maturity and past so-called character issues ... "It's a business. It's my job now. But in order to do well, you have to love your job. I think basketball is the funnest thing in the world to do. I'm going to smile everyday."