Heat vs. Raptors Takeaways: Miami Falls Short In Disappointing Loss

The Miami Heat were taken down by the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday night, 121-97

The Miami Heat's winning streak was snapped on Wednesday with a 121-97 loss to the Toronto Raptors.

Here's a look at five major takeaways:

1. Miami fell short in the disappointing loss.

A few nights after a near-overtime loss to the Brooklyn Nets, the Heat were once again overwhelmed by an efficient shooting display. The Raptors shot 51.1 percent and 20 of 38 from beyond the arc. Their efforts were led by guards RJ Barrett and Gary Trent Jr., who combined for 54 points. Miami made a comeback in the second half, but their efforts were too little, too late.

2. Tyler Herro needs to find a solution to his inefficient shooting.

Herro is known for having shooting inconsistencies, which appear to shift on a game-to-game basis. In tonight's showcase, the 23-year-old guard tallied 16 points and seven rebounds on 7 of 20 shooting. For him to be in conversations with the NBA's top guards, Herro's efficiency must improve.

3. The Heat's forwards were the lone positive.

The efforts of Jimmy Butler, Nikola Jovic, and Caleb Martin were not able to overcome their deficit. However, the group combined for 36 points on 14 of 25 shooting. Other contributors must excel for Miami to come out victorious.

4. Barrett is stepping up as Toronto's second star.

Following the departure of All-Star forward Pascal Siakam, Barrett is looking to take over as the No. 2 option. He scored 26 points along with eight rebounds and three assists on 64.3 percent shooting. The 23-year-old was on a crowded New York Knicks roster but has the opportunity to thrive with the Raptors.

5. Miami's defense is not on par with their usual standard.

With center Bam Adebayo and forward Haywood Highsmith leading the way, the Heat are expected to display one of the league's top defenses. However, that was not the case in tonight's outing. For them to compete with Eastern Conference contenders such as the Boston Celtics and Milwaukee Bucks, their unit on the defensive end must play to their potential.

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Anthony Pasciolla works as a contributing writer to Inside the Heat.

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