The Miami Heat and New York Knicks each extended their distinct but very different streaks on Saturday, demonstrating their continued divergence from one another. Miami lost 125-109 in the fourth quarter, going downhill for the sixth time straight. This franchise is known for its fluctuations, but this kind of skid necessitates a reaction.
To get through this difficult time, head coach Erik Spoelstra is relying on his team’s perseverance, camaraderie, and maybe the cherished Heat culture. He stated, “Right now, we’re going to rally around each other, rally around our identity,” according to Miami Herald reporter Anthony Chiang. “This is a difficult time right now.”
The Heat have only scored 110 points or more once throughout this free fall and have fallen by double digits four times (averaging 110.5 points per game this season). Jimmy Butler outperformed the Knicks, scoring 28 points on 11 of 20 shots, pulling down eight rebounds and committing three thefts. Even with Bam Adebayo’s double-double of 12 points and 13 rebounds and Duncan Robinson’s 19 points off the bench, more help was still required.
With Butler and Adebayo carrying the majority of the offensive load, there is always the worry that Miami lacks the firepower to go far in the postseason. That’s why Terry Rozier was purchased by the front office earlier this week. In the postseason, Spoelstra and company typically manage to overcome adversity and surpass expectations. In the past, players like Robinson and Caleb Martin have been unsung heroes; this year, youngster Jaime Jaquez Jr., who has missed the majority of the team’s losing streak, looks ready to take up that position.
But, the Heat can only play from a disadvantage for so long before being overtaken. They are now on track to qualify for the NBA Play-In Tournament for the second consecutive year with a 22-20 record and a seventh-place finish. The intense intensity of the first two games, particularly the pivotal second game against the Chicago Bulls, is obscured by their incredible run to the NBA Finals.
