A: I doubt there would be any type of knee-jerk reaction, since the Heat showed last season that even the most dire of circumstances can be corrected. But I do agree that a solid start is essential for this team's psyche. It is one thing to come together and overcome last season's 11-30 start. But now that the team has been kept together -- in some instances at a considerable hit against the salary cap -- the last thing that can be afforded is for the seed of doubt to reenter the process. I do, however, find it interesting how same are willing to cash out as soon as the Dec. 15 marker when teams can begin dealing players signed in the offseason. The reality is that if those players are playing well, there would be no reason for a trade. And if those players aren't playing well, then their value would be distressed. My best guess, similar to last season, is that what the Heat start the season with is likely what they will end it with. Only then do I believe Riley will take stock.