The "Heat" are in crisis. "Failure permeates the building." When was the last time that happened? 

Well, 2007/08. That was Pat Riley's last season on the bench. We had a mess similar to this. Only two seasons removed from the 2006 championship team, Riley angrily traded Shaquille O'Neal in February 2008, just as he traded JBIII February 2025. 2007/08 was also Alonzo Mourning's last season in the NBA after a knee injury in December. Dwayne Wade was hurt the entire season and the org shut him down for the final 21 games. 2007/08 was also the Smush Parker Error in Miami, which lasted only from July to November, at which time he he had a bust-up with a parking lot attendant. He played 9 games for us. We finished 15-67, the worst record in the Association.

So there are significant similarities. One in particular concerns me: Could Erik Spoelstra do what his mentor, and the person who elevated him to head coach, did in 2008, i.e. leave? I have written privately to a friend, I don't know if publicly here, that were I coach of this team this season, I would have resigned already. Spo has not had a season up to his standards, and there is evidence of a disconnect between him and the players. If Riley were to retire, and Spo to replace him as president (which is what Spo wants in that eventuality), Spo would then choose the next head coach. I would feel better having Spo choose than 80-year old Riley.