By Miguel Mike Medina
Photo Credit: ALDIAZ / MIAMI HERALD PHOTO BY AL DIAZ
NBA star Klay Thompson is officially a member of the Miami Heat. Thompson and head coach Erik Spoelstra joined together for the press conference introduction.
It’s a new era in Miami. Thompson is an exciting addition for the team. Some people are doubting Thompson. We could be seeing a season of redemption for Thompson. Coach Spoelstra had high praise for the four-time NBA champion.
“The subtle nuances and other subtleties about his future Hall of Fame career are also what really excites us about him,” Spoelstra said. “He knows how to win. He knows how to help others.”
Spoelstra loves his basketball IQ and being a two-way player. Spoelstra is a fan of Thompson’s talent. He’s very excited about having him on the team.
Miami needed more shooting around Bam Adebayo. Now, they have Thompson, Bobby Portis, and Tim Hardaway Jr. Thompson is a great complementary piece to Giannis and Adebayo.
“It’s not just about shooting,” Spoelstra said. “It’s about finding a way to win.”
Spoelstra won three championships with the Heat—one as an assistant coach in 2006 and two as a head coach in 2012 and 2013. Thompson and Spoelstra don’t have much history in terms of communication, but he respects and admires Spoelstra’s story.
“I know Coach Spo’s story,” Thompson said. “I know the respect he commands in the world of basketball is very high. We’re from the same city, so I’ve heard great things. I know he and Steve Kerr worked together for a couple of stints with Team USA. Steve had nothing but great things to say, and so did my friends who have played for the Miami Heat.”
Playing in Miami is a demanding atmosphere. Thompson accepts the challenge. Many people are comparing Thompson to Ray Allen in terms of acquisition in their veteran careers. Miami is looking to write its own story and not dwell on the past.
The Heat can make a deep postseason run if everyone understands their roles and stays healthy. Thompson will lead by example. Spreading the floor will be crucial for this team to thrive. Fastbreak situations will be fun to watch with this new group.
Miguel Mike Medina is the publisher of The MMM Journal. He can be reached at medinamiguelmike@gmail.com and themmmjournal@gmail.com
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