Miami Heat vs. Los Angeles Lakers: Five Major Takeaways
A look at the five biggest takeaways from the Miami Heat’s win against the Los Angeles Lakers
The Miami Heat took down LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers earning their second consecutive win.
With Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo combining for 50 of the team’s 108 points, the Heat squeaked out a 108-107 victory. Los Angeles drops two straight, moving them to a 3-4 record.
Here’s a look at five major takeaways:
1. Adebayo’s offensive production is the Heat’s X-factor.
The All-Star big man finished the night with 22 points, 20 rebounds, and 10 assists. Adebayo dominated in the second half after Lakers star Anthony Davis was benched due to an injury. This level of performance is impossible to sustain but could make a difference in the postseason.
2. Miami’s backcourt is in need of help.
Outside of star Tyler Herro, the Heat’s backcourt continues its struggles. Guard Kyle Lowry recorded five points and five assists, while Josh Richardson scored three points on 1 of 2 shooting. The Heat will need to search for potential acquisitions around the trade deadline.
3. Jimmy Butler finally has a bounce-back performance.
Butler got off to a slow start in Miami’s first six games but rebounded in tonight’s narrow win over LA. He wrapped up the game with 28 points, six assists, and four rebounds on 60 percent shooting.
4. The Heat’s interior defense lacks, while Adebayo is sidelined.
Lakers superstar duo James and Davis were causing problems for Miami’s defense in the first half. Although Adebayo played locked-down defense, the Heat must find answers while he’s resting. Thomas Bryant struggled to defend the paint despite his non-stop energy on the floor.
5. This victory further builds on the Heat’s inability to sustain leads.
Although they came out victorious, their fourth-quarter performance was not ideal. The Heat were outscored 28-18 in the final quarter after leading by 11 at the end of the third. If Miami hopes to compete for an NBA title, fixing this problem is essential.
Anthony Pasciolla works as a contributing writer to Inside the Heat.
He can be reached at ampasciolla@gmail.com or follow him on Instagram @anthonypasci
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