Nobody beats the Miami Heat three times in a month.
At least that is what Miami proved on Wednesday night, when they outlasted Indiana 92-87.
Using a blend of defense and timely runs, Miami was able to stifle Indiana’s offense and walk away with their first win of the season against their conference rival. After allowing an average of 123 PPG in their two previous losses to Indiana, the Heat held the Pacers to a season-low 87 points.
Another Balanced Offensive Effort Pays Off
Despite no player on Miami taking more than 14 shot attempts, five Heat players scored in double figures. Duncan Robinson was the most efficient Heat player, leading all scorers with 20 points. But contributions from Jimmy Butler (18 points), Tyler Herro (17), Bam Adebayo (16), and Goran Dragic (12) helped ensure that Robinson’s big game wouldn’t go to waste.
Adebayo paired his 16 points with 8 rebounds and a team-high 7 assists. But, more importantly, his screen setting and passing allowed Robinson and Herro to get open looks.
Nothing Easy And Nothing Inside
The small things add up in low-scoring games, and the Heat made sure to win those small battles on Wednesday. Miami outscored Indiana in the paint, 42-40. They also outran Indiana, winning the fast break battle 21-16. More impressively, the Heat only committed 14 fouls and allowed the Pacers to shoot just 12 free throws on the night.
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