Miami Heat vs. Utah Jazz Takeaways: Jimmy Butler Takes Over In Narrow Victory

Here's a look at five of the biggest takeaways from the Miami Heat's win over the Utah Jazz

Author:
Anthony Pasciolla
Mar 3, 2024 12:29 AM EST

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The Miami Heat (34-26) were able to overcome a halftime deficit against the Utah Jazz (27-34) to claim a 126-120 victory on Saturday night.

Here's a look at five major takeaways:

1. Jimmy Butler took over in the narrow victory.

The 34-year-old hauled Miami to the win with a stat line of 37 points and seven assists on 63.2 percent shooting and 3 of 3 from the arc. He shined in the second half, scoring 25 points on 9 of 14 shooting. It's clear Butler is looking to push the Heat outside of the Play-In Tournament, as they sit as the No. 6 seed in the East.

2. Bam Adebayo contributed at a high level on the offensive end.

Adebayo stamped his mark on the evening by tallying 23 points and seven rebounds on 66.7 percent shooting. His top play of the night was a textbook spin move against forward John Collins, which led to an open layup. This style of play from the All-Star big man is perfect for the Heat's offensive scheme. He attempted the second-most shots in the lineup in the absence of star Tyler Herro, but did so at an efficient rate.

3. Lauri Markkanen and Keyonte George kept the Jazz within striking distance.

Markkanen is the solidified star of Utah's roster while George is bursting onto the scene in his rookie season. The tandem combined for 56 points and 10 assists on 17 of 38 shooting. The Jazz are not in a position to compete for a championship yet, but have the pieces to begin making a push for the postseason.

4. Terry Rozier is starting to find his rhythm with the team.

After a rough stretch prior to the All-Star break, the former Charlotte Hornets guard is hitting his groove. Rozier finished the night with 14 points and eight assists on 5 of 9 shooting. His chemistry with Butler and Adebayo is beginning to build, which is crucial for success down the stretch.

5. The Heat's forward room found triumph throughout the evening.

Caleb Martin led the charge with 18 points, five rebounds, and three blocks in 22 minutes of action. Meanwhile, rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. and sophomore Nikola Jovic combined for 20 points and seven rebounds on efficient shooting splits. Martin and Jaquez's contributions were essential in the final 12 minutes, as they each played more than half of the quarter.