AP for ESPN:
HEAT CHECK
Miami has been one of the league's steadiest franchises, missing the playoffs just three times since 2008.
It's a model Cleveland would like to follow.
Cavs coach J.B. Bickerstaff admires both the Heat's consistency and ability to adapt. He credits Miami president Pat Riley and coach Erik Spoelstra for leading the way.
“They have a philosophy and are flexible enough to change with the times and keep people wanting to be a part of it," he said. “They have core values they believe in and then they do a great job of acquiring talent but finding talent in the cracks.
“Their best players aren’t always No. 1 picks. They have been able to work free agency, G League, later draft picks and turn it into talent because their player development staff is so good.”
Kind words from J.B. Indeed, Steady and Consistent are the Miami "Heat's" two middle names. This franchise will get you 45 wins every damn year (standard deviation, 5 wins) and there’s nothing you can do about it!
