Mailbag: Has the zone become a long-term weapon for the Heat?

The weekly Miami Herald Heat mailbag is here to answer your questions.

If you weren’t able to ask a question this time, send your questions for future mailbags via Twitter (@Anthony_Chiang). You can also email me at achiang@miamiherald.com.

@Daniel22223333: Is the zone a sustainable formula for success, or is it a regular-season gimmick? And, if it can work against any team in the playoffs, can it work against poor shooting teams like the 76ers?

Anthony Chiang: I think the Heat has already proven this 2-3 zone is more than just a gimmick. It’s actually an effective scheme for Miami, and has definitely helped during this current 11-5 stretch. Yes, the Heat’s primary defense is still man-to-man.…