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.
