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Slashing and Dunking, Wade sparks Heat
(AP)
Updated: 2006-03-01 09:09
"Once he gets into the open court, forget it," Riley said.
"That's why we call him Flash," O'Neal said. "He's one of the fastest guys in
the league."
But Wade does most of his damage in the half court. When the defense sags on
O'Neal, Wade slices into the lane. And when he's double-teamed, O'Neal's usually
waiting under the basket with one-on-one coverage.
That helps explain how Miami has outscored opponents in the paint in the last
two games, 156-66.
In his third NBA season, Wade is averaging 27.4 points, 5.9 rebounds and 6.8
assists, all career highs. Still, there's room for improvement.
His defense has yet to match the All-Star level of his offense. His perimeter
game needs work, as his 6-for-51 shooting from 3-point range would suggest.
And Mourning believes Wade will become a better passer.
"Because he draws so much attention and is so aggressive attacking the
basket, I'd like to see him find the open man just a little bit more," Mourning
said. "He could average 10 assists a game if he made a concerted effort to do
that.
"But the man is only 24 years old."
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