Skyforce win record 39th game & could help Heat in playoffs

The Sioux Falls Skyforce won their D-League record 39th game, to stand at 39-9 for the season. They may become the first -League team to ever win 40 games in the league's 50 game schedule, which wraps up its regular season this weekend.

Numerous teams in the NBA have suffered major setbacks due to key injuries, but none have shown the resilience of the Heat to bounce even stronger. With Chris Bosh, Tyler Johnson and Beno Udrih out, the Heat's bench players and Pat Riley's key trades kept Miami relatevant. To bolster the team further in case of an unexpected event, their D-league affiliate could give two players to fill out the current 13-member Miami Heat squad to the NBA maximum limit of 15 players.

Although not a member,  Dorrell Wright remains a distinct possibility for the Heat with his familiarity of team's system. Still available as a free agent, he could fit in and still keep the team under the salary if signed when condition permit.

Dan Craig is a lock for coach-of-the-year, and has prepared the Skyforce players to seamlessly blend in with the varsity Miami team. Some of the players that could be in the mix for the final roster spots include:

1. D'Andre Liggins, who is the assist leader with some NBA experience. Craig characterizes him as someone with a high basketball IQ and great work ethic. He converted 5 of 7 3's in the record-setting game.

2. Briante Weber, a roadrunner and lockdown defender, who recently played out his 10-day contract  with the Grizzlies. His tenacious, high motor, Patrick Beverley-type style might suit the new look Heat.

3. Rodney McGruder, one of the team's core members who plays a solid all-around winning game.

4. Keith Benson, a D-League veteran and back-up paint defender.

5. Greg Whittington, a Summer League favorite, who was one last players cut from Heat squad in October.

Udonis Haslem has seen precious few minutes this season and is available for relief. Gerald Green and Josh McRoberts are looking to work their way back into the rotation if they can regain their early season form. Only 13 players can dress during a game so they will have a tough time to see action. There are possilities, since few predicted Josh Richardson's rotation minutes.

On all accounts the Miami Heat should have been road-kill this season with the adversities they had to overcome. A team can never have enough depth as insurance. A full squad could help the Heat in case of emergency if a Goran Dragic or Justise Winslow are not available during a short series.