In the past it could honestly be stated that the “culture” of a team like the Heat could lead it to championships. That statement is no longer valid, probably because kids are no longer brought up by strict parents who create nearly a military atmosphere in the home. The result was that when the kids became adults, they were responsive to that type of atmosphere, especially in the work environment. So, when a coach drilled a play or a response to an opponent’s play into the players’ heads, they reacted as instructed no matter the situation. That mindset no longer exists and teams like the Heat need to promote talent over culture and talent over temperament. An example of this difference was seen in a recent Heat game when a Heat player had a clear path to the basket on a fast break but instead pulled up and launched a long three, which missed. The “culture” was not strong enough in the player’s mind to dissuade him from attempting a long three-point effort instead of accepting a sure “two”
The talent levels are higher today, as are the confidence levels. Most players are very good at their profession and want to be able to display their talents on the court. The principal difference between players today is in their ability to be recognized by their teammates as team leaders. Players are more likely to respond to one of their own who has assumed the role of leader before they will accept playing within a manufactured culture.
Today’s Heat team appears to be without an accepted leader, as a result of which players have a tendency to react on their own and not in line with a leader’s direction. There are excellent players on the roster, including Herro, Bam, Mitchell and Ware, but no “take-charge” guy who has earned the respect of the team on the court and is therefore able to provide direction in executing a game plan. To possess this talent, the team will probably have to acquire it by trade, and that will undoubtedly involve more than a few existing players.
In any event, it should be an interesting off-season watching management rebuild what had at one time promised to be a championship quality group of players. Having failed to achieve that level of performance, the Heat will have to try again.The fans will be watching….intently!
Photos Courtesy Of The Miami Heat
