The Miami Heat have lost three games in a row. They got blown away by Toronto and Orlando. Then, they lost at home by a tremendous shot from Dejounte Murray. Tonight in Orlando during the post-game press conference, Coach Spolestra got frustrated from reporter’s questions. He stressed that these are part of the “ups and downs” of the season. The Heat are one week removed from being up seven games over .500, so he said, it wasn’t time to panic. Let’s look at the three games.
Game losing streak starts: Toronto vs. Miami
The Raptors appeared to be waiting for Miami. They jumped the Heat and scored 78 points in the first half. They shot 62.5% in the first quarter and made 20 three pointers in the game. The Heat missed 14 shots in the first quarter and 15 in the 2nd. Check out this article here on Reuters about the game. The Raptors looked unbeatable on this night, but they have been 4-7 since the trade. Check out this article here on our site talking about the Siakam trade. Gary Trent continues to kill the Heat every time he plays them with 28 points. The Heat looked disinterested in the game.
Game streak to 2 — Atlanta vs. Miami
The Heat played Atlanta at home on a special night. They hung the jersey of Udonis Haslem into the rafters of the arena. Many young fans will look at Udonis Haslem as the 15th man on the team. Haslem represented to other players what Heat Culture was on paper. Check out this article here on SI.com where Haslem’s presence transcends his stats. Paul Pierce still thinks about Haslem.
The Heat fell behind in the fourth quarter but fought back and pulled ahead 108-107. Then Dejounte Murray brought the ball down and made a tremendous game winning shot. He posted on Instagram the retired jerseys of the Heat. I think he was auditioning for Pat Riley directly, but that is just my humble opinion.
Game losing streak to 3 — Orlando vs. Miami
Orlando scored 54 points in the paint and blew out Miami in the third quarter. They had 23 second chance points and 12 fast break points. Tyler Herro had a terrible game. He went 4 of 14 and only took three shots inside the three point line. He had two assists and two turnovers. Check out this article from Reuters here on the game. The Heat committed 18 turnovers.
