The Heat failed to maintain their momentum after two wins in a row. They lost to the Indiana Pacers 101-99 and followed that up with another loss, this time losing 110-107 to thee Portland Trailblazers courtesy of a Josh Hart game-winner. The Heat desperately need a win tonight against the short-handed Charlotte Hornets. Let’s get into the Heat season companion part 2.
Heat Season Companion Part 2: The Heat Fell Short in Indiana
The Heat went into the game against the Indiana Pacers on a two-game win streak, but they could not capitalize on that with another win. The Heat fell behind by 12 at halftime and failed to complete the comeback.
Such slow starts have been too common for the Heat so far this season. The Heat will have to start off games much better on both sides of the ball in order to consistently win. One of the keys to that is better production from the bench.
The Heat’s bench was one of the best bench units in the NBA last season, but it has been inconsistent so far this season. With Herro now in the starting lineup, players like Vincent, Strus, Martin, and Robinson will have to step up off the bench. Hopefully, that does happen.
The Heat Blew Their Lead Against The Blazers
The loss against the Trailblazers was even more irritating to me. The Heat had a 15-point lead at one point, but they blew it and allowed the Blazers to come back late in the game. That eventually lead to Josh Hart making a game-winning three-pointer.
The Heat have to capitalize on their leads and do a better job defensively in order to hang on to them. That might entail a different defensive scheme or different lineups, but it is crucial for the team’s success. Another part of it is fouling less often.
The Heat have gotten into foul trouble several times in recent games. This compromises them on both ends of the floor. Additionally, it gifts free points to the opponent at the free-throw line. The Heat have to be more disciplined and foul less.
Heat Season Companion Part 2: The Heat Should Make a Trade with Yurtseven Out for a While
Bam has played well to start the season, but Dedmon has not and now Yurtseven could be unavailable due to injury for quite some time. Given the situation, the Heat should make a trade for a new back-up center. The Heat need a better back-up center than Dedmon to help them make it through the minutes without Bam. Myles Turner is one player who could be available.
The Heat Have to Turn Things Around Soon
The Heat are 4-7 after 11 games and several of those losses have been to teams the Heat should beat. It’s not yet time to panic, but genuine concern is warranted at this point. Hopefully, the Heat will turn things around and go on a winning streak. I would bet that the Heat will beat the Hornets, at least.
Check back next week for more Miami Heat content.