Riley Addresses Heat's Season
MIAMI (CBSMiami.com) – For the first time since assembling the Big Three during free agency in 2010, Heat president Pat Riley talked to media at length on the Heat's season that ended two wins short of an NBA Championship.
Riley reiterated that he will not return to coaching, saying "It doesn't mean I don't have the fire. But we've got a great young coach here."
But, when he was asked about the future of head coach Erik Spoelstra, Riley gave himself a little wiggle room.
"Definitely we're going to bring Erik back," Riley said. "As far any long-term type of situation, that's not been discussed."
There have been reports since the season ended that the Heat had at least considered moving one of the Big Three. Riley said there "was never any thought, never any discussion of moving any of those guys."
But despite the Heat coming up short in the NBA Finals, fans hoping the Heat will turn back towards the NBA Draft to find emerging young talent, that's not happening under Riley's watch.
"I don't think you win championships with young, athletic players that don't have experience," Riley said.
Riley re-iterated his support for Mario Chalmers saying he is a starting point guard and will get better. He also said the team is "blessed to have" Heat forward LeBron James and compared him to a young Magic Johnson.
Riley wouldn't guarantee a future championship, but he did tell reporters that the Heat "are going to be multiple contenders."
The next move for the Heat will be Thursday night when the team has the 31st pick in the NBA Draft.
After that, nothing will happen until a new collective bargaining agreement is reached between owners and players. Then, free agency will open and the Heat can start to fill out the supporting cast for Lebron, Dwyane Wade, and Chris Bosh.
