The improved play of Jason Williams and Udonis Haslem

While all Heat fans know that Miami is off to an embarrassing 1-6 start, which is good enough for last place in the Southeast Division, there have surprisingly still been some bright spots for the team. The brights spots have been mainly with the improved play of PG Jason Williams and PF Udonis Haslem.

PG Jason Williams: Williams is in his 3rd season with the Miami Heat and arguably doing his best out of the 3. A probable reason for his improvement is because he finally got rid off his knee ailments that have been plaguing him for the last 3 years. During the off-season, he had knee surgery and lost 15 pounds. He publicly said that "he was in the best shape of his career." So, with improved health and conditioning, he has gotten back to his old speedy, explosive form.

As of today, Jason Williams is averaging 11.3 points per game, 7 assists, 3 rebounds, and close to 2 steals a game. Along with those impressive numbers, Williams field goal percentage is 40% and he is averaging 36 minutes a game, which is a 6 minute increase from last year and the best of his entire career.

Almost every single statistical category has improved from last year and the former Florida Gator is acting as a point guard that is controlling the offense effectively. Another headline about Williams stats is his 7 assists per game. That's the best of his Miami Heat career, and an increase of almost 2 assists per game from last year.

Overall, Jason Williams has been very effective for Miami this year and he looks to run the offense even better when super-star Dwyane Wade returns from injury.

Now, Udonis Haslem:

PF Udonis Haslem: Wow, there's almost too much to say about this hard-working kid. As of the beginning of the season, UD had the honor and privilege of being deemed The Captain of the Miami Heat by head coach Pat Riley. "We didn't have any official captains last year, but Udonis is really the heart and soul of this team now," Riley said.

Along with being named team captain, Haslem is by far enduring his best statistical season in his 5 years as a member of the Heat. Although the season is still very young, Haslem is averaging an impressive double-double, with 14 points and 10 boards a game. But, Haslem is also doing things that don't show up in a box score. He hustles and plays out his heart and soul every single game. Whether it be diving for a ball or getting multiple offensive rebounds or never giving up on a play, Udonis is really proving why he should be the captain of the Miami Heat. Hopefully his play, along with the return of D-Wade, the Heat will get back to their 2006 championship form.