The Miami Heat lost 128-120 to the No. 2 seed Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday despite a good effort.
Five key takeaways:
1. Miami lost because the Thunder’s offense defeated them.
Although the Heat are known for their shooting, Oklahoma City’s offense was better. Miami led by four in the third quarter but lost by eight. The Thunder shot 59.3% and 42.4 percent from three. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Chet Holmgren scored 51 points, while forward Jalen Williams was one rebound away from a triple double. This game highlights the Thunder’s skill, not Miami’s.
2. Tyler Herro needs more efficiency.
Unfortunately for Heat fans, the former Sixth Man of the Year suffers with efficiency. He played well in the victory against the Rockets, but he scored 17 points on 7 of 21 shooting tonight. Herro’s three thefts were significant on defense.
3. Bam Adebayo’s breakthrough season is real.
The two-time All-Star center is renowned for his defense, but his оffensive impact is notable. Adebayo finished with 25 points, 11 rebounds, 6 assists, and 2 blocks on 56.3 percent shooting. Miami’s future is built on him.
4. Nikola Jovic excels in a bigger role.
Erik Spoelstra was criticized early in the year for giving Jovic too much playing time. The Serbian forward played 32 minutes, ending the displeasure. On 62.5 percent shooting, he had 15 points, five rebounds, and four assists.
5. Haywood Highsmith showed attacking sparks.
Highsmith excels at perimeter and paint lockdown defense. However, the 6-foot-7 forward is improving offensively this season. He scored 19 points and grabbed five rebounds on 50% shooting and 5/7 from 3-point range.