No one but sports gossips really believed the Miami Heat would completely retool itself this summer, but team president Pat Riley's comments today should put all rumors to rest. No, he's not coming back to coach. Yes, Erik Spoelstra's job is safe. No, neither LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, nor Chris Bosh will be traded over the season. Perhaps more interesting, though, Riley didn't go as far as to promise an NBA championship.
Riley gathered with sports journalists this morning at the American Airlines Arena and decided to set a few facts straight.
"No, I'm not going to do that," Riley said when asked if he'd return to coaching. "It doesn't mean I don't have the fire. But we've got a great young coach here."
So, rest assured Riley will not join Jack McKeon as the city's latest over-the-hill sports coach. He was less committal about Spoelstra's long-term prospects with the team, but he will get another shot. It also doesn't seem Riley has completely ruled out returning to the sidelines if the situation calls for it.
As for any roster changes, Riley doesn't imagine any major tweaking, especially concerning the big three.
"There was never any thought, never any discussion of moving any of those guys," he said. "I'm happy we have those three together."
As for the possibility of a championship next year, Riley said only, "We are going to be multiple contenders. I have no problem saying that."
Follow Miami New Times on Facebook and Twitter @MiamiNewTimes.
