After four exhibition games, it sounds like Heat coach Stan Van Gundy is leaning toward keeping Antoine Walker as a sixth man.

Walker playing a reserve role has been suggested and implied since the Heat acquired him in August, but Van Gundy spoke in depth about the idea for the first time Wednesday.

Through four exhibition games, Walker is averaging 12.3 points, 4.3 rebounds and 2.3 assists in 22.5 minutes. Not only does Van Gundy like the options Walker gives him coming off the bench, but it's a role that would allow Walker, a 19.8 career scorer, more scoring chances.

''I think the one thing that, hopefully, he's seeing is that when he comes in the game we're going to him,'' Van Gundy said.

``I'm not saying he can't start or he can't play with those other guys, but it's easier to go to him when he's coming in off the bench.''