Erik Spoelstra praised his team’s defense in the 115-105 victory over the Houston Rockets at Kaseya Center on Saturday.
“The most important thing… we held them to 22 in the fourth and then we don’t look at it as a coincidence,” Spoelstra said. “All of a sudden guys start playing on the other side… kind of takes the stress away… and guys just start to gain confidence.”
He highlighted the contributions of Bam Adebayo and Pelle Larsson in the closing minutes. “Bam was obviously so crucial, but Pelle was great in that fourth quarter…several guys had opportunities to play offensively. Wiggs had that big rebound that led to one going down on the other end.”
Spoelstra emphasized the importance of defense throughout the game. “We have the opportunity to be a very good defensive team… we really have to commit to that with all our heart,” he said. “Together… rebounding is probably the biggest key against that team. Kel’el did one of his better jobs in the zone, just communicating and protecting in that inner circle. Bam is super dynamic whether you play him center or on the wing.”
Regarding Larsson’s aggressive approach against Alperen Sengun, Spoelstra noted, “It started with setting some screens… then the ball was able to move out of there… Pelle was able to put the ball on the floor and be aggressive in one-on-one situations. He played an important role on both ends of the floor.”
Spoelstra also praised Andrew Wiggins’ defensive efforts despite a mouth injury. “Wiggs was great at the top of the zone against Durant. I felt like this was one of the better defensive games you can play against an iconic scorer and he still finishes at 32. Take that with you, Wiggs.”
He acknowledged the team’s adjustments due to injuries. “I feel sorry for Norm because he wants to be there for all the games, especially at these times… we’ll deal with him and see where he is after the week,” Spoelstra said of Norman Powell.
Miami overcame an early 14-4 deficit with a 37-14 run to take control. Adebayo finished with 24 points and 11 rebounds, Larsson scored 10 of his 20 points in the fourth, Tyler Herro had 18, Jaime Jaquez Jr. added 14 and Kel’el Ware recorded 13 points and 15 rebounds.
The Rockets, who signed Jabari Smith Jr. missed, were led by Kevin Durant with 32 points, eight assists and six rebounds. Amen Thompson scored 20 and Reed Sheppard had 14.
The Heat host the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday, while Houston visits Washington on Monday.
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