A: An interesting question on many levels. First, with the recent emergence of Luol Deng and Danny Granger, an argument could be made that only now, with Chris Bosh back, are the Heat truly defining themselves in the post-LeBron James era with their rebuilt roster. The Heat arguably now have more weapons than they've had to this point of the season. Of course, the Heat also failed to capitalize on a favorable early schedule with so many home games, so they'll have to come together during a grueling portion of the schedule that includes upcoming road games against the Rockets, Clippers and Warriors. And I still believe it will be almost impossible to miss the playoffs in the Eastern Conference unless you really try, which is what some teams in the East also are doing. Look, making deals involves timing. And only now are the Heat approaching a few major personnel timing moments: Jan. 6 is the first day players can be signed to 10-day contracts. Jan. 10 is when all contracts become guarantee for the season. And Jan. 15 is the first day, because of the way his contract is written, that the Heat can trade Chris Andersen. But the Heat's play at point guard has been so atrocious that Pat Riley may have no choice.