Heat vs. Celtics Takeaways: Terry Rozier Struggles In Blowout Loss To Former Team
It was an evening full of disappointment for the Miami Heat, who were blown out 143-110 by the Boston Celtics.
Here's a look at five major takeaways:
1. Terry Rozier struggled in the blowout loss to his former team.
In his second outing in a Heat uniform, the 29-year-old guard failed to meet the fan base's expectations. He finished the night with seven points and three assists on 3 of 10 shooting. Fans should have patience, as Rozier must become accustomed to Miami's style of play in the coming weeks.
2. The Heat's Big Three's efficient performances were not enough.
Jimmy Butler, Bam Adebayo, and Tyler Herro combined for 55 points, but they were overwhelmed. Herro added six assists to his stat line, while Adebayo tallied five rebounds and two assists. Butler had an impressive display, shooting 7 of 11 with two made three-pointers.
3. Miami's defense is becoming a glaring issue.
Whether it's on the perimeter, preventing three-pointers, or stopping inside looks, there are problems. As a team, Boston shot 63.7 percent and more than 50 percent from beyond the arc. Not to mention, the Celtics knocked down all but one of their free throws. Much of the issue with the Heat stems from a lack of size on the floor.
4. Boston's stars could not miss.
The Celtics' starting lineup had no trouble taking care of business. Superstar Jayson Tatum led the way with 26 points and eight rebounds on 46.7 percent shooting. Meanwhile, guards Derrick White and Jrue Holiday recorded a combined 32 points on 13 of 20 shooting. Jaylen Brown scored 18 points on 50 percent shooting from beyond the arc, while big man Kristaps Porzingis finished with 19 points in 20 minutes of action.
5. Frustration is beginning to build with the games ahead being challenging.
Many fans are pointing to a play that occurred in the second half as a symbol of the Heat's frustrations. Butler appeared annoyed on the offensive end when he did not receive the ball from Duncan Robinson. The star forward's attitude is understandable, as Miami's loss was their fifth consecutive. The Heat take on the New York Knicks (28-17) on Saturday, then the Phoenix Suns (26-18) on Monday evening.
Anthony Pasciolla works as a contributing writer to Inside the Heat.
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