Last night’s game between the Miami Heat and the Toronto Raptors exposed an ongoing factor the Heat has been dealing with most of the season. The Heat doesn’t have the offensive firepower that could propel this franchise to new heights.
This is quite ironic considering how they’re currently ranked ninth in points per game in the league. They’ve managed to score so high based on their new style of play, which is fast-paced, offensive transition basketball. However, that won’t be enough if that alone won’t win them games.
Tyler Herro's absence is felt
This is where they desperately need their star player, Tyler Herro, back as soon as possible. Norman Powell has been doing his part as one of Miami’s key microwave scorers, having only a handful of off-nights.
Bam Adebayo has proven to be detrimental offensively if his shots aren’t falling, so he can’t be a reliable source for points. Kel’el Ware has all the potential in the world and has dropped superstar-level performances, but he can be ineffective, too, if he’s not involved in the game.
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With Tyler Herro on the court, not only is he the team’s best shot creator, but he excels in playmaking as well. Defense will have no choice but to play everyone on equal grounds, which levels the playing field for players like Ware, Bam, and especially Powell. However, none of that matters if he’s not on the court.
His availability has been an issue since the start of the season after he underwent foot surgery during the offseason. As long as he’s out, the Heat will have to find other ways to score the ball instead of solely relying on defense.