Why Kel'el Ware 'stacking days' is important for Heat

"At this time last year, Miami Heat center Kel'el Ware was scrapping and clawing for minutes in Erik Spoelstra's rotation. In fact, the then-rookie played a total of 47 minutes across his first eight games, not exceeding 14 minutes in any one of them. His role was far from consistent, but the 7-foot center was in the midst of the Heat's player development behind the scenes."

""It gives us so much confidence," Heat head coach Spoelstra said after Sunday's win. "How fun was that to see Kel'el in that second quarter, rebounding everything offensively, putting them back and playing with so much more force than he was a year ago at this time. "He's gaining confidence. I want to be open-minded to wherever it can go. I don't want to put a ceiling on him.""

"Ever since Ware was called out by Udonis Haslem after his unimpactful Nov. 14 outing against the New York Knicks - despite putting up numbers - Ware has flipped a switch. He is averaging 16.6 points, 15.6 rebounds (5.6 offensive!!!!!) and 1.4 blocks across 52.5 percent shooting, 50.0 percent (6-12) from 3-point range and 86.7 percent (13-15) from the charity stripe."

Kel'el Ware began last season fighting for minutes, totaling 47 minutes across his first eight games and rarely exceeding 14 minutes. He eventually entered the rotation in late December and secured a starting job by late January. Ware has since built confidence and produced sustained stretches of play, especially over the last two weeks. His recent run includes strong rebounding and offensive aggression, prompting high praise from head coach Erik Spoelstra. Ware's current averages reflect a significant jump: around 16.6 points, 15.6 rebounds (including many offensive boards), solid shooting percentages, and increased defensive presence.

Read at Hot Hot Hoops - Miami HEAT NBA Blog