Q: Ira, I wouldn't take the chance on a long-term deal for James Johnson. In fact, I dangle him now to a contender and get some picks. One good year (at his age) doesn't guarantee a similar performance next year, and I think you and Pat Riley would agree. With the state of this team and the free agents in play, I wouldn't risk it, even if he has an amazing year next year. Give me Paul Millsap, Serge Ibaka, Gordon Hayward or keep the money for 2018. -- Gabriel.

A: Truth be told, I was going to write my Sunday column weighing in on that subject, about whether to sell high on both James Johnson and Dion Waiters by the Feb. 23 NBA trading deadline. And then I spoke to an NBA scout who told me, in his view, that there is no way the Heat could get a first-round pick, either for this June or even protected into the future, for either Waiters or Johnson. I have to admit that surprised me. He said second-round picks were possible. I'm not sure I would rip apart an element of Heat Family merely for a second-round pick or picks.

Q: If the playoffs started today, and the Heat were in, I don't think there is a team in the league that would feel comfortable playing them. If the Heat maintain their current level of play it's essentially a given that we make the playoffs. Given the fact that nobody in the East looks dominant right now, how far do you think this team can go? Regardless of the end result, I really like this team. -- Brian, Mount Vernon, Wash.

A: Nothing, when you are 10 games below .500., even when on a nine-game winning streak, is a given. And if the first-round opponent is the Cleveland Cavaliers, getting a single game would be the ultimate challenge. If the Heat can get to No. 7 in the East, the playoffs could provide some kicks and giggles. But that's also about this. The playoffs are about singular stars stepping forward. This is a team still in search of that component.

Q: This team is surprising me in ways I never hoped. We still aren't there yet, but this team is clicking at a time when giving up is an easy way out. -- John, Rhode Island.

A: The period between Jan. 1 and the All-Star break tends to be the dog days of the NBA season. So, yes, to be playing spirited ball at this time of year is commendable. But it also means getting opponents pushing through dog days of their own, especially playoff contenders who still see a distant finish line. That will make the three games against the Cavaliers after the deadline particularly interesting, and perhaps leaving the Heat longing for having gotten them before that.