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Kyle Lowry On the Move?

(Photo by Quinn Harris/Getty Images)

It’s that time of year again. Where teams make trades to either improve their roster or rebuild. With the February 8th NBA trade deadline approaching, teams have been actively engaged in trade discussions. This season, there are a few teams that are said to be sellers, such as the Charlotte Hornets and the Atlanta Hawks among others. And then you have teams like the Miami Heat, who are trying to improve their title contention. According to the Miami Herald’s Anthony Chiang, they have been exploring Kyle Lowry trades to do so.

“The Heat continues to explore trades involving Lowry ahead of the Feb. 8 NBA trade deadline, according to multiple league sources,” Chiang wrote. “Lowry holds value on the trade market with his sizable expiring $29.7 million salary.”

Bench Role

Via Getty Images

Just recently, the Heat made decided to take Lowry out of the starting lineup after 35 appearances. He has not scored double figures since January 3, when he scored 10 points, and since the beginning of January, his average has only been 4.4 points and 3.6 assists per game. Although Lowry finished the previous season in a reserve role, the new role may prove beneficial for him. Just like it did last season. However, the experiment has not yet paid off, as Miami has lost its first two games without Lowry in the starting lineup.

Seeking Guard Help

Miami would like to acquire a scoring guard. Guards like Dejounte Murray, Tyus Jones, and Terry Rozier have been listed as trade candidates. Rozier has been a popular name linked to Miami. With one more guaranteed season left on his deal, Rozier has become a far more appealing trade chip because of his play this year, especially during Lamelo Ball‘s absence with the sprained ankle. He’s posting career-highs in both assists (6.7) and points (23.6) per game. The 29-year-old guard also has a field goal percentage of 46 percent, of which he is making 36.7 percent from three-point range.

With a record of 24-19, the Heat are in sixth place in the Eastern Conference and are seeking a repeat trip to the NBA Finals, though they will probably need to add some players to overcome a tight Eastern Conference race. We will see if they’re able to make a move between now and the trade deadline.

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Report: HEAT, Bucks Linked as Potential PJ Tucker Destinations

Photo via Getty Images

Despite dealing with multiple injuries and lineup changes, the Miami Heat sit at the fifth spot in the Eastern Conference standings. With their rookie forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. playing ahead of schedule, the Heat have been able to stay in the middle of the competitive Eastern Conference. His arrival has allowed the Heat to wind stand the injuries to their top three players this season. Still, Miami could seek additional moves with the trade deadline being almost two months away. There are reports that Miami could be interested in bringing on of their former players back in PJ Tucker.

NBA insider Marc Stein reported that both the Bucks and Heat expressed “a healthy level of admiration”for Tucker, who has been seeking more playing time or a trade from the Los Angeles Clippers.

(Jack Dempsey / Associated Press)

The veteran forward has not seen playing time since November 27th and remains as a reserve while the Clippers explore trade options ahead of February’s trade deadline. Tucker has averaged 1.2 points and 2.4 rebounds while shooting 28.6 percent in 12 games with the Clippers. Before the trade, he was a consistent starter for the Philadelphia 76ers. He previously played for both the Heat and Bucks’

Trade Complications

Stein adds a potential deal for Tucker doesn’t seem possible this season. Why? Because Tucker’s contract complicates things in regard to a trade. He’s making $11 million this season and is guaranteed $11.5 million next season. That’s a lot of money for any team to take on and salary to send out for an aging player. Especially in a one-for-one trade. If he’s traded this season, it’s more possible he’s in a larger deal as a salary filler. Miami is also deep in the forward positions and may lack the playing time Tucker desires.

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Takeaways from the Miami Heat’s Victory over the Magic

Photo by Heat.com

It was a short one-game road trip for the Miami Heat. They faced their divisional rival the Orlando Magic, who have one of the best records in the Eastern Conference. The Magic proved tough for Miami early on with them getting easy baskets off the cut. They caught Miami sleeping multiple times on defense. Then, Miami picked up their defensive intensity and went up by double-digits. They kept it going from there and ended up winning the game. With the win, Miami moves to 16-12 for the season. Here are my takeaways from Miami’s win over Orlando.

Explosive Second Quarter

This was arguably the best second quarter for the Heat this season. The second quarter began with both teams trading baskets. Orlando was able to get baskets off of cuts. However, things started to change quickly halfway through the quarter. Miami went on a 17-0 run to lead by 18 points at halftime. They hit 12 consecutive shots in a row to finish the quarter. Didn’t miss a shot attempt in the final six minutes of the quarter. Miami picked up the defensive intensity and it opened up things on the offensive end. The ball was moving, and Miami was finding their open shooters.

Highsmith’s Two-Way Play

It was a bit of slow start for Haywood Highsmith. He had a bad turnover on the fastbreak and couldn’t knock down the open triples. With the defense focused on Miami’s shooters, they were willing to give up the open corner three-pointers for Highsmith. But then, Highsmith’s play got better and it ended up sparking a huge Heat second quarter run. Highsmith was getting multiple defensive stops, diving on the floor for loose ball, and knocking down the open triples. Highsmith had four triples in the second quarter.

Tyler’s Great All-Around Game

This was one of Tyler Herro‘s better all-around game of the season. He was scoring on all level of the court. He had different counters for the Magic defenders. Most importantly, nothing was forced from Herro on the offensive end. Everything was in the flow of the offense. The transition pull-up three-pointers were there. There was one play where he took the bump, spun around, and hit the turnaround jumper. Having the ability to score in different areas has been a huge improvement in Herro’s game. He also got his teammates involved and dished out multiple assists. He was very close to getting a triple double on Wednesday night. Herro finished the night with 28 points, eight rebounds, and seven assists.

Robinson’s Playmaking

It was clear the Magic were defending Duncan Robinson for the three-point shot all night. They played him tight the moment he stepped on the court. They seemed willing to give up the open corner shots and take their chances so long as Robinson wasn’t the one taking them. Despite this, Robinson still ended up beating them in other ways. Robinson continued to show his improvement off the dribble as he got into the paint. He either scored or assisted on his drives to the paint. Robinson ended the night with 12 points and six assists.

Next up: The Atlanta Hawks on Friday. Game tips off at 8pm eastern.

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Takeaways from the Miami Heat’s Victory over the Hornets

Photo by Heat.com

After a short trip on the road, the Miami Heat were back at home for a four-game homestand. The first game was against the Charlotte Hornets, who they played on Monday. Again, Miami found themselves playing without three starters. The game started off very sloppy for Miami with careless turnovers. Offense was clearly a struggle for Miami early on. But, they did create separation as the first half ended and never looked back. With the win, Miami moves to 14-10 for the season. Here are my takeaways from Miami’s win over the Hornets.

Turnovers

The story of the first half were turnovers. Miami entered the game averaging 13 turnovers per game, which is one the fewest turnovers in the league. It didn’t appear that way in the first half, with Miami picking up 14 turnovers before halftime. The Heat were very careless with the basketball. The players were either trying to make homerun passes or just doing too much. Miscommunication also played a factor early in the game with the team not being sharp. However, it got better before halftime with Miami players spacing the floor and making the right passes.

Duncan’s Consistency

Missing Tyler Herro, the Heat needed production from it’s backcourt. Filling in for Herro, Robinson has been able to provide that. We all know how good of a shooter Robinson is. He’s been shooting the ball well off the catch. Most importantly, he’s shooting the ball with zero hesitation. However, he’s improved his all-around game. With defender’s respecting his shot, he’s able to get downhill and make plays for himself and his teammates. Once again, he had a good first half, with 14 points. He led all Heat scorers in the first half, including four triples. Once Herro returns, Robinson will be a key part of the Heat’s bench. Remember when Robinson was considered a bad contract? Times have certainly changed. Robinson ended the night with 20 points.

Lowry’s Perfect Night

This was one of Kyle Lowry‘s best all-around games of the season. He made his first five shots of the game. Lowry was 5 of 5 from the field, including 4 of 4 from downtown. Defensively, he was matched up against Hornets forward Miles Bridges. Bridges entered the game averaging 20 points per game. Despite the size advantage, he struggled against Lowry when he had the ball. Lowry played terrific on-ball defense on Bridges and forced him to lose the ball. Additionally, Lowry did draw a charge on a Hornets player. Lowry would finish the game with 17 points.

Minutes Without Butler

One of the biggest questions entering the game was how the Heat were going to survive the minutes without Jimmy Butler. Especially in the fourth quarter. After playing the whole third quarter, Butler usually sits the first couple of minutes of the fourth quarter. And that’s usually danger time for Miami. Without Butler, Miami typically struggles to score without him. And we mentioned earlier that the Heat were missing two of their top three players. On Wednesday, Miami entered the fourth quarter with a 21-point lead. This time, Miami got the job done, with Caleb Martin and Jaime Jaquez Jr leading the charge. Most importantly, Butler didn’t have to play in the fourth period.

Next up: The Chicago Bulls on Thursday.

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Takeaways from the Miami Heat’s victory over the Bulls

Photo credit: Miami Heat

The Miami Heat played their second consecutive game against the Chicago Bulls in Chicago. The Bulls have been horrible to start the season, with rumors of an eventual team blowup. On Saturday, they got the best of Miami despite trailing 20-1 in the first period. As the first quarter started with Miami pulling ahead early, there was a feeling of deja-vu in the arena. Miami was able to get whatever they wanted. Of course, the Bulls still pushed back and was very competitive for the most part. Unlike last game, Miami took care of business in the fourth quarter and put the Bulls away for good. With the win, Miami moves to 9-5 for the season. Here are my takeaways from tonight’s victory over the Bulls.

Another Hot Start

Basketball is a funny game sometimes. Just like Saturday’s game, Miami started the game on a big run, going 12-2. However, this time they didn’t push it to 20-1. Chicago responded with an 8-0 run of their own. Both teams went back and forth in the first period. Duncan Robinson got going early. 11 of his points came in the first period, with three of those shots being three-pointers. Jimmy Butler also got going in that period as well. Miami pretty much got everything they wanted on the offensive end, including a surprising hook shot from Butler. Butler even yelled “Skyhook” after hitting the shot. Overall, Miami’s main objective was to get into their actions quickly and they did that.

Bam’s Foul Attempts

Adebayo’s offensive growth continues to impress. Once again, he was able to get whatever he wanted on the offensive end. The midrange jumpers were falling as usual. However, the most important development of Adebayo’s game has been his free throw attempts. Entering Monday, Adebayo is averaging a career-high 7.3 free throw attempts. With defenders respecting Adebayo’s jumpers, he’s been able to get the defender to fall for his pump-fakes. He also baits the defender to foul him whenever he’s going downhill. It’s very similar to a former Heat legend we all know. This development changes things for the Heat.

Rook Leading the Bench Attack

It was an uneven night for the Heat’s bench on Saturday. Jaime Jaquez was in foul trouble throughout the game. And it affected his rhythm throughout the game. That was very different in Monday’s game. Jaquez was more assertive on offense, particularly in the first half. He read the defense well and got to his spots. He also attacked the paint multiple times. With Jaquez having a good post-game, Miami often went to him down low when he had the mismatch. Jaquez either attacked the paint or patiently kicked it out to the open man. Most importantly, he shot very well in the corner three-pointers. If he’s able to hit that shot consistently, that opens up his game even more.

Overcoming the Fourth Quarter Blues

If the Heat wanted to win this game, they needed to take care of business in the fourth quarter. That’s where Miami lost the game on Saturday, when the Bulls outscored the Heat 34-21. Turnovers and high volume three-point shooting really hurt Miami in that period. Miami did better this time around. Offensively, they were more patient and not rushing shots as much. They did a better job of making sure Adebayo got his touches on that end. Defensively, they trapped the Bulls star players and quickly recovered out to their shooters. Miami led by as many as 20 points in the period.

Next up: The Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday.

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Takeaways from the Miami Heat’s Victory Over the Nets

Photo via Miami Heat

The Miami Heat entered Thursday’s game seeking a seventh consecutive win. The last they lost? Against the Brooklyn Nets, who was their opponent again on Thursday. Miami struggled early in the game on offense. The ball wasn’t moving, and Miami was forced to take tough shots. But Miami would get better as the game went on. They went on a 14-0 run to finish the first half. Brooklyn made it interesting late, but Miami closed the game in the end. With the win, Miami moves to 8-4 for the season. Here are my takeaways from Thursday’s win over the Nets.

Himmy Butler

Jimmy Butler started off the season cold. But recently, it seems like Butler is starting to get more engaged. And he showed it again in the first half. With Miami struggling with their shots, Butler took it upon himself to look to score. He punished the Nets defenders in the paint either through the post or forcing the foul. Additionally, he made them pay from beyond the arc. Butler knocked down two triples in the first half, even letting the Nets know he shoots 50 percent from there. You usually don’t see Butler triples this early in the season, but they have been a welcome sight for a struggling Heat offense. He was even better in the third period, where he scored 18 points. Butler finished the night with 36 points, five rebounds, and three blocks.

Duncan Robinson’s All-Around Game

It was another good all-around game for Duncan Robinson. Robinson, who was out of the rotation last year, has been a great addition to the rotation this season. Before, he was just a stand-still shooter who often got in foul trouble. However, that’s changed this season. The Heat forward has defended well without fouling and he’s impacting the game in other areas besides shooting. In addition to the Heat’s stars, Robinson has had moments where he’s been the playmaker for Miami. He’s done a good job of reading the defense and finding the open teammates. Robinson finished with 26 points on 6-of-10 shooting from downtown.

Caleb Martin Returns

After missing 10 straight games with his knee injury, Caleb Martin was back in the rotation. Martin looked like a player who hasn’t missed a beat. He knocked down his first three-pointer of the season on his first shot of the game. Martin looked very comfortable out there. He even brought out one of his famous three-point celebrations. Martin finished the night with six points in limited minutes. Of course, he ended up getting a technical foul for it. Martin’s addition also allowed Miami to test a new lineup. Miami went with an intriguing lineup of Josh Richardson, Martin, Robinson, Jaime Jaquez, and Bam Adebayo. Lots of versatility on both ends with that lineup. The lineup pushed Miami’s led to 15 in the fourth period.

Back on the Road

Now, the Heat are headed back on the road, where Miami will be away for nine days. The Heat will be playing five games, with the first road game being in Chicago. This new road trip will present a good challenge for Miami. They play the Chicago Bulls twice, the New York Knicks, Cleveland Cavaliers, and these same Nets. Expect a couple of those games to be a defensive battle. Still, Miami appears ready for the challenge, and they are slowly getting healthier with Martin back now. Miami would look to have similar success to their last road trip.

Next up: The Chicago Bulls on Saturday. The game tips off at 8pm eastern time.

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Takeaways from the Miami Heat’s victory over the Hornets

Photo via Miami Heat

The Miami Heat entered Tuesday’s game tied for the third seed in the Eastern Conference standings. Miami was looking to finish their four-game road trip undefeated with another win. Despite being shorthanded, the Charlotte Hornets got off to a hot start with a double-digit lead in the first half. Miami started to pick things up in the second quarter, putting full court pressure on the Hornets. It worked as the hornets squandered their lead. Still, the game went down the wire with Miami closing it with a win in the end. With the win, Miami moves to 7-4 for the season. Here are my takeaways from Tuesday’s win over Charlotte.

Butler Sets Tone

Jimmy Butler‘s mindset was very different in this game. Instead of being passive, he was aggressive and attacking the defense early. Butler converted his first four shots in the first period. Butler had 16 points in the first half, finishing with a buzzer at the end of the half. He came through late when Miami needed it most. Butler drew fouls on his attacks to the paint and hit a big jumper late in the fourth period. Butler had 14 free attempts for the night. This is the Butler Miami needs. Especially with Tyler Herro out. Butler finished the night with 32 points, five assists, and two steals.

The LockSmith

Two years ago, there was noise about Miami losing P.J. Tucker and finding his replacement. Flash forward to today and it appears that have found it in Haywood Highsmith. Actually, he’s been even better. Highsmith’s game was full effect on the defensive end in the second quarter. He ignited a big run for Miami in the second quarter. By halftime, he had 12 points, four steals, and two blocks. With Highsmith playing this way, Miami needs to lock him in long-term when he’s eligible in March. He’s been exceptional on both ends of the floor for the team. Miami is also 6-0 with him in the starting lineup. Highsmith finished the night with 12 points, five steals, and two blocks.

Bam’s Elite Play Continues

Bam Adebayo remains a force for Miami. After starting the game off slow, Adebayo became more aggressive the rest of the way. Especially after halftime. He scored Miami’s first six points in the third period. The Hornets had the size advantage but could do nothing against Adebayo’s quickness. Also, Adebayo is shooting midrange jumpers at a consistent level. Once he got the jumper going, he started the attack the rim as well. Most importantly, he continues to draw fouls on his defenders and slowing down the game. It’s been a great road trip for Adebayo, who was one of the runners-up for East Player of the Week. He’s playing at an All-NBA level right now. Adebayo finished the night with 21 points, 11 rebounds, and two steals.

Trusting the Rook

The Heat continue to trust their rookie and it’s been paying off. Jaime Jaquez continues to be consistent in his role. On Tuesday, he was exceptional on both ends. Defensively, he stayed in front of his assignment and provided good help defense. Offensively, he scored in a variety of ways, including off the ball and off the catch. He played a key role in Miami’s 8-0 run in the fourth quarter. Because of his impact, Jaquez ended up playing the entire fourth quarter. When the Hornets closed within four, Jaquez nailed a three to keep the Heat ahead. There’s a reason Miami is putting a lot of faith in him. He’s got a great IQ and feel for the game. Jaquez finished the night with 17 points and five rebounds.

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Takeaways from the Miami Heat’s Victory against the Spurs

Photo via Miami Heat

After losing four straight games, the Miami Heat have now won five straight games. This is their first five-game winning streak since 2022. The game didn’t start off well for Miami. Offensively, they couldn’t make shots while the San Antonio Spurs‘ offense was clicking. There was a point where Miami trailed by 19 points. However, they made a strong push to get back in the game. And after trading baskets with the Spurs in the fourth period, Miami was able to push ahead and seal the victory. With the win, Miami moves to 6-4 for the season. Here are my takeaways from Miami’s win over the Spurs.

Duncan’s Improvement

It’s amazing how Duncan Robinson‘s game has evolved over the years. In his first couple of years with the Heat, he was only a three-point shooter. But over the past few years, he’s added more to his game. And we saw all of that in Sunday’s game. Because of his three-point threat, opposing teams crowd Robinson at the three-point line. However, he’s now beating defenders off the dribble and finishing in the paint. There was a point in the game where he pulled the “Smitty” move on Victor Wembanyama. This has been a great development for Robinson and the Heat as well. Robinson led the way with 26 points.

Bam Continuing to do Bam Things

At this point of the season, expect Bam Adebayo to give you 20 and 10 a night. He’s been the leading guy for a while now. And Miami’s sticking with him. The midrange game of Adebayo is better than ever. He’s not hesitating to shoot the jumper. He’s very decisive on the offensive end of the floor. Most nights he’s going to have the advantage with his quickness against bigger centers. Defensively, Adebayo did what he usually does. He was everywhere on the floor playing man and helping on the weak side. It’s still boggling my mind that he doesn’t get credit for the level of defense he’s playing. Now, it’s even showing on the box score. Adebayo finished with 24 points, 11 rebounds, and three steals.

Lead us Kevin!

Since starting the first few games of the season, Kevin Love has been on the outside of the rotation. This weekend, Love has been back in the rotation. If you followed the Heat over the years, you would know the saying “Stay Ready so you don’t get ready”. Love got his number called and he’s been producing. In the third period, with Miami trailing, Love provided a much-needed spark in the third. Offensively, Love shot the three-ball and scored a basket or two in the paint. He also competed against Wembenyama on the defensive end and held his own for the most part. This was a good performance for the Heat veteran off the bench. Love finished the night with 12 points.

Richardson Bounces back

Josh Richardson has bounced back after a slow start to the season. The past two games this weekend have been very welcoming for Richardson. Last game against Atlanta, he shot 85% from the field. His jumper is looking better and he seems to have his legs under him. On Sunday, he was back in San Antonio, where he played last season. Before the game, he received a video tribute for his contribution last season. In the fourth quarter, he played a huge role in Miami’s comeback. Richardson knocked down two huge baskets in the final minutes of the game. And he also made two huge free throws as well. Richardson ended the night with 12 points.

Next up: The Charlotte Hornets. Game tips off at 7pm eastern time.

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Takeaways from Miami Heat’s Victory over the Memphis Grizzlies

Photo Credit: Heat.com

The Miami Heat entered this new road trip with the goal of winning their road games. Since the start of the season, the Heat have been winless from the road at 0-3. On Wednesday, their opportunity to end that came against the shorthanded Memphis Grizzlies. At first, the Heat blew their lead up to double-digits. However, just like any other Heat game, this one ended up being a close one. But in the end, Miami was able to get stops and finish the game with a win. With the win, Miami moves to 4-4 for the season. Here are my thoughts on Wednesday’s victory over the Grizzlies.

Statement Game for Bam

This week has been a statement week for Bam Adebayo going up against two of the best defensive centers in the league. On Monday, Adebayo excelled in that challenge against Anthony Davis. This time his opponent was Jaren Jackson Jr, the reigning Defensive Player of the Year. It was an uneven game for Adebayo in the first three quarters. He was making some questionable mistakes and got himself in foul trouble. But when the fourth quarter came, he was ready to play. Adebayo was very aggressive on both ends of the floor. He blocked a couple of shots and attacked the rim on the other end. Adebayo scored 16 points in the fourth period, putting the team on his back. Adebayo finished with 30 points, 11 rebounds, and three blocks.

Herro Goes Down

Things were clicking offensively for the Heat midway through the first period. Miami was moving the ball and attacking the open gaps in the Grizzlies defense. Tyler Herro was one of the main players attacking the Grizzlies defense. Unfortunately, his night ended when he sprained his right ankle on a play in the first period. Herro hobbled to the locker-room and never returned. Now the Heat awaits to hear about the severity of the injury. Losing Herro would be a blow to the Heat’s offense. He’s one of the few guys who can create his own shot. Now they’re going to need multiple guys to step up in his absence.

Kyle Steps Up

It’s been a quiet season offensively for Kyle Lowry. With the Heat’s top players taking on the bulk of the scoring, Lowry has been making an impact in other areas. The majority of the things he did don’t show up in the box score like taking charges and diving for loose balls. But when Herro went down, Miami needed more from him offensively. And Lowry certainly answered the challenge. He knocked down open threes and made plays in the paint for him and his teammates. Lowry almost had a triple double but was one assist away from it. Lowry ended the night with 17 points, 11 rebounds, and nine assists.

Rook to the Rescue

Since he’s been with the Heat, Jaime Jaquez Jr has shown great basketball IQ on the floor. His feel for the game is exceptional. Especially considering he’s only a rookie. Defensively, he’s in the right spots and has great hands. Most importantly, he was very clutch down the stretch of the game. He got a couple of stops on defense and shot a huge three to put the game away for good. Overall, a solid night for the Heat rookie. And He’s only going to get better from here. A great pickup for the Heat. Jaquez finished the night with 11 points.

Next up: The Atlanta Hawks on Saturday. The game tips off at 7:30pm eastern.

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Takeaways from Miami Heat’s Victory over the Wizards

After losing four straight games, the Miami Heat needed a bounce back win. They came off a terrible performance against a shorthanded team. On Friday, they had another opportunity to get back in the win column. Friday marked the first night of the new In-Season Tournament group play. It was a great start on both ends of the floor as Miami grabbed a double-digit lead in the first half. Miami even pushed the lead up to 22 points in the second half. The game got interesting late when the Washington Wizards made a huge run in the fourth quarter. But in the end, Miami finished the night with a win. Here are my takeaways from Miami’s win over the Wizards.

Jimmy Sets the Tone

All Photos via Miami HEAT

The Heat entered the night with the second worst record in the league at 1-4. This was an important game for Miami to get. Jimmy Butler got the message and set the tone early. Butler got into the paint multiple times and drew fouls. This is where he usually makes his impact. Especially during the regular season. He had 11 points and five rebounds in the first quarter alone. Defensively, he continued to be everywhere on the floor and playing the passing lanes as well. This was Butler’s best game of the season. This is the Butler the Heat need night in and night out. Butler finished the night with 20 points and seven rebounds.

Tyler Herro’s Complete Performance

Tyler Herro continues to be exceptional so far this season. There has been a lot of criticism concerning the number of shot attempts per night. However, Herro stepped up and contributed in multiple ways on Friday. Herro did it all on the offensive end from passing to rebounding to scoring. He was one assist away from his first triple double of the season. Defensively, he had some great moments as well. He denied the ball and stayed in front of Jordan Poole multiple times on that end of the floor. It’s very early, but Herro has been the Heat’s best offensive player this season. And could make a case for a potential all-star berth if this continues. Herro finished the night with 24 points, 11 rebounds, and nine assists.

Fourth Quarter Collapse

After six games, there’s been a noticeable trend with Miami. Miami’s fourth quarters this season have been awful outside of the game against Milwaukee. With a 20-point lead heading into the fourth quarter, this was looking like a night without drama. But then the Wizards went on a 15-0 run to trim Miami’s lead to single digits. And they were doing this without their starters on the floor. They pressed Miami full court and forced Miami to take quick shots and turn the ball over. With the Wizards making a run, Miami had to put Butler and Bam Adebayo back in the game to finish. Miami needs to have better awareness in these positions and cannot lose focus in these moments. Washington outscored Miami 33-20 in the period.

New Lineup

For the fifth time this season, Miami went with a different starting lineup. On Friday, Miami started Haywood Highsmith over Jaime Jaquez. Kevin Love was back with the team but was a healthy scratch. Looking for a spark, Miami decided Highsmith was the best option. Highsmith is one the best versatile defenders on the roster and Miami was struggling to stop others with their starting lineup. He can guard the team’s best perimeter players and also help with crashing the boards. With an improved three-point shot, Highsmith also helps the Heat on the offensive end. He shot 2 of 3 from downtown on Friday. It was a solid night for Highsmith, who scored eight points for the night.

Next up: The Los Angeles Lakers on Monday. Game tips off at 7:30pm eastern time.

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