The Heat finished their Western Conference road trip by visiting Sacramento to play the Kings. Unfortunately, the Heat came up short once again, losing 119-113. This loss drops Miami to 2-5 on the season. It’s been a difficult start to the season for the Heat. Let’s get into the Heat game 7 review for Heat vs. Kings in Sacramento.
Heat Game 7 Review: The Heat Struggled Defensively in the First Half
The Heat had a terrible first half against the Kings, and the defense was particularly bad. The Heat allowed 71 points in the first half against Sacramento and found themselves down 71-49 heading into the second half. This is uncharacteristic of the Heat.
The Heat’s rotations were slow and the Kings were able to do whatever they wanted offensively in the first half. In addition to scoring 71 points in the first half, the Kings also shot 55% from the field in this game. The Kings made 45% of their 3s against Miami, as well. The Heat’s defense was nowhere near good enough against the Kings and this was a major contributing factor to the loss.
The Heat’s Offense Sputtered in the First Half
The Heat’s defensive struggles in the first half were significant, but they struggled almost as much on offense in the first half, too. The Heat only scored 49 points in the first half and were unable to find any sort of flow on offense in this half.
These struggles have been all too commonplace this season. The Heat will have to get off to better starts offensively in order to win games consistently. Perhaps some lineup changes will help, but the current results are worrying.
The Heat’s Bench Only Scored 19 Points
It is also worth noting that the Heat’s bench did not play particularly well. Their bench players only contributed 19 points in total in this game. Out of all the Heat’s bench players, only Max Strus scored double digits points with 11.
This is another surprising development. The Heat’s bench played quite well last season. Miami will need more production from their bench in order to turn the season around and consistently win games.
Heat Game 7 Review: Tyler Herro Scored 34 Points
Tyler Herro was one of the few positives in this game for the Heat. He scored 34 points on 13-22 shooting and 5-8 shooting from 3. Herro has enjoyed a good start to the season. Hopefully, he continues to play well as the season progresses.
The Heat Face the Warriors Again Next
The Heat return home to Miami and face off against the Golden State Warriors in their next game. The Heat desperately need to win and end their losing streak. I would bet that Herro will play well, but the rest of the team needs to follow suit in order to win.
Check back next week for more Miami Heat content.