Slashing and Dunking, Wade sparks Heat
(AP)
Updated: 2006-03-01 09:09

"Once he gets into the open court, forget it," Riley said.

"That's why we call him Flash," O'Neal said. "He's one of the fastest guys in the league."

But Wade does most of his damage in the half court. When the defense sags on O'Neal, Wade slices into the lane. And when he's double-teamed, O'Neal's usually waiting under the basket with one-on-one coverage.

That helps explain how Miami has outscored opponents in the paint in the last two games, 156-66.

In his third NBA season, Wade is averaging 27.4 points, 5.9 rebounds and 6.8 assists, all career highs. Still, there's room for improvement.

His defense has yet to match the All-Star level of his offense. His perimeter game needs work, as his 6-for-51 shooting from 3-point range would suggest.

And Mourning believes Wade will become a better passer.

"Because he draws so much attention and is so aggressive attacking the basket, I'd like to see him find the open man just a little bit more," Mourning said. "He could average 10 assists a game if he made a concerted effort to do that.

"But the man is only 24 years old."