The constant during Saturday's postgame interviews was about how fresh Dwyane Wade appeared. Heat coach Pat Riley cited it in his media session, as did Grizzlies coach Mike Fratello. Even Wade acknowledged extra spring in his step. Granted, the Heat is not in position to give Wade many four-day breaks, as it did after the guard underwent oral surgery. But there is something to be said about not pushing too hard. With Saturday's 40 minutes, Wade is now fifth in the NBA, averaging 40 minutes per game. Among the league leaders, only Philadelphia's Andre Iguodala has played more than Wade's 839 minutes.Any break will help, as Shaq is still a few weeks away from playing and possibly a few more until he's back to his dominant self. Phil Jackson has pointed out many times before that Shaq doesn't really start trying until after his birthday on March 6th. Besides that, until Payton and J-Will are back to full strength, Wade will have to carry the Heat on the offensive end and create open shots for everyone. (Notice how much better Wright plays with Wade on the floor?)
If the Heat are to make any noise this spring, he's going to need to take some time off. Maybe Flash just needs a few more wisdom teeth removed and then some root canals. What about crowns or veneers? Periodontal surgery? Dentures?
