Miami Heat Youngsters Step Up Big Against Golden State Warriors
The Miami Heat started their five-game road trip on Thursday in the Bay Area, taking down the Golden State Warriors 114-102.
Despite Jimmy Butler, Kyle Lowry, Caleb Martin, and Josh Richardson all sidelined with injuries, Miami received help from some unsung heroes. Jamal Cain tied his career-high with 18 points. The two-way player made his 10th appearance with the Heat this season, making seven baskets from the field and contributing two steals in 28 minutes.
Nikola Jovic also took advantage of his time on the court, scoring 11 points while making all but one shot. The 2022 first-round pick had previously played in just two games since the start of November.
R.J. Hampton stepped in as the starting point guard, making his first start in a Heat jersey. The 22-year-old had played just 28 minutes all season prior to the matchup with Golden State. Hampton had seven points in 24 minutes.
Hampton and Cain were both introduced as part of the Sioux Falls Skyforce opening day roster, the G-League affiliate. Jovic has also had stints with the Skyforce this year.
The reserves made an impact in smaller ways as well. Cain, Jovic, and Hampton combined for half of Miami’s offensive rebounds and combined for a plus/minus of 25. Jovic even recorded the Heat’s lone block.
Miami’s injury woes have caused coach Erik Spoelstra to roll out 17 different starting lineups in 31 games. The next-man-up mentality has Miami sitting as the fourth seed in the Eastern Conference after the latest victory.
Casey Fahrer is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He can be reached at caseyfahrer716@gmail.com.
