Over the last couple of games, Miami Heat fans have gotten a taste of what Kel’el Ware brings to the table and it really came into view in Monday’s 110-95 win over the Brooklyn Nets. That energy and depth on either end of the floor that Ware has brought in was much-needed for the Heat, opening up a larger conversation about his place in the rotation and why he should see minutes over the veteran Kevin Love as the primary backup to Bam Adebayo.

Against the Nets, Ware flashed moments of his defensive potential, providing a degree of rim protection and versatility behind Adebayo that Miami has been coveting. His 7-foot frame, combined with quick feet, allowed him to show in the paint and switch effectively on the perimeter, a staple of the Heat’s defensive schemes. Brooklyn had a tough time finding easy buckets with Ware on the floor, as his presence in the paint often made the Nets settle for tough jumpers or second-guess drives to the rim.

His impact wasn’t just limited to blocking shots; Ware’s ability to alter attempts and disrupt passing lanes added another layer to Miami’s defense. His defensive instincts helped the Heat contain the Nets during crucial stretches, adding two steals and a block while more importantly giving Bam Adebayo much-needed rest without a noticeable drop-off in defensive intensity.

On the offensive end, the athleticism and skill of Ware as a lob threat has opened up the playbook for Miami. Long leveraging Adebayo through his pick-and-roll versatility, Ware has introduced much more of a traditional rim-runner dynamic, pairing up well with the cast of playmakers on this roster. Against Brooklyn, he finished multiple lobs which forces the defense to always account for him.

Ware’s verticality also complements Miami’s floor spacing. With shooters like Tyler Herro and Duncan Robinson drawing defenders to the perimeter, Ware’s ability to finish above the rim provides an outlet that the Heat haven’t consistently had with Love in the lineup. This added dimension has made the second unit more dynamic, creating easier scoring opportunities and relieving pressure on the guards to generate offense.

Kevin Love’s experience and leadership are invaluable, but Ware offers a skill set better suited to Miami’s current needs. Love’s lack of lateral quickness and rim protection has been a defensive liability at times, particularly in matchups against faster, more athletic second units. Ware’s mobility and ability to defend in space address these issues, making him a better fit in Miami’s switch-heavy schemes.

Ware’s play over the last couple of games against the Nets and Magic is indicative that he needed more of a role. The defensive impact he brings in coming off finishing lobs and running the floor makes him the perfect backup to Adebayo. Playing Ware more minutes not only preserves Adebayo for crunch time but allows Miami to develop their promising young big who could be a cornerstone in their future.