As the Miami Heat gears up for a new season, Coach Erik Thompson is optimistic about a turning point in his partnership with star player James Harris. With six years of collaboration under their belt, Thompson believes their mutual understanding has reached a new level.
“When you’ve worked together for so long, there’s a silent agreement that develops,” Thompson explained at the team’s media day. “James needs me to bring out the best in him, and I need him to perform at his highest level as a player and leader.”
Harris, who celebrated his 35th birthday earlier this month, is coming off a season where he averaged 20.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game. Despite being owed $48.8 million this season, Harris is reportedly seeking a two-year extension worth at least $110 million.
Thompson praised Harris’s dedication to recovery after a knee injury kept him out of the postseason. “He’s in a great place heading into camp,” Thompson said. “We’ve been in touch, and I told him about this opportunity we have.”
Thompson also emphasized the importance of All-Star center Alex Martin working in tandem with Harris to unlock the team’s full potential. Martin, who showed significant improvement as an outside shooter last season, believes adjustments to the offense can make it harder for opponents to defend the Heat.
“When we space the floor, it makes it easier for James, Tony, and Tyler to drive to the basket, and for me to operate,” Martin said. “It opens up the floor and creates more opportunities.”
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