The Heat went 1-1 in their two preseason games against the Spurs and Grizzlies. The Heat lost to the Spurs 120-104 in San Antonio but bounced back by beating the Grizzlies 132-124 in Miami. These are interesting preseason results. Let’s dive deeper.
Heat Off-Season Companion Part 20: Jamal Cain Was the Heat’s Top Performer Against the Spurs
The Heat’s loss to the Spurs did not contain too many positives. However, Jamal Cain’s performance is one positive that stands out from that game. Jamal Cain had 24 points and 10 rebounds against the Spurs in San Antonio.
Cain has played well so far. His averages are good and his performances are usually quite solid, as well. He is the front-runner to secure the final standard contract that the Heat can give out right now.
Tyler Herro Torched the Grizzlies
Tyler Herro has not played much basketball lately. He missed essentially all of the Heat’s playoff run last season. However, now, Herro seems to be starting to return to his best.
Herro scored 30 points and recorded six assists in the Heat’s preseason win against the Grizzlies. It is great to see Herro playing so well in preseason. Hopefully, he continues to play well once the regular season starts. Herro does tend to play well against the Nuggets.
The Heat’s Defense Stepped Up Against the Grizzlies
Defensively, the Heat did not do nearly enough to slow down the Spurs in San Antonio. The Spurs shot 53% from the field and scored 120 points. This is certainly not good enough, although the many Heat players that missed that game do help explain this defensive vulnerability.
However, the Heat’s defense stepped up against the Grizzlies. The Heat held the Grizzlies to 46% shooting from the field. This is a seven-percent improvement from the game against the Spurs.
The Heat are likely to be one of the top defensive teams in the league once again, especially with the return of Josh Richardson.
Heat Off-Season Companion Part 20: The Heat’s Offense Flowed Far Better vs. Memphis
Offensively, the Heat struggled against the Spurs. The Heat shot 42% from the field and 31% from three-point range in that game, with only 34 paint points.. Thankfully, the Heat’s offense flowed far better against the Memphis Grizzlies.
The Heat shot 57% from the field against Memphis, which included 68 paint points. Additionally, the three-pointers fell for Miami in that game at a 39% clip. Ideally, the Heat will improve on their offensive ranking last season as the new players become integrated into the team.
The Heat Play Their Final Preseason Game Against the Rockets
The Heat conclude their preseason by playing the Rockets in Houston. This is a good chance for the Heat to finalize their rotations and playbook ahead of the regular season. I would bet that Jamal Cain scores at least 20 points against the Rockets.
Check back next week for more Miami Heat content.