Pelle Larsson credited Miami’s defensive focus for their 115-105 win over the Houston Rockets Saturday at Kaseya Center.
“I think we had defensive stops. We were flying around in that zone and just covering each other,” Larsson said, describing the Heat’s fourth-quarter effort. “On offense, it was a bonus… so we went right to work and got easy free throws or layups.”
Larsson explained his aggressive approach against Alperen Sengun. “I’m always going to be available… so when I get it, I’m just ready to play downhill, shoot it or be a screener like I was for Tyler in the first half.”
He emphasized the chemistry with Kel’el Ware, calling it “just easy when you play with him. I realized it very early when we played in summer league two years ago. I can just throw it anywhere and he usually makes me look good.”
On the team’s defensive cohesion, Larsson added: “I thought it was great. Rebounding is their biggest strength… he helps us with that and he’s done an absolutely great job.”
Larsson scored 20 points, including 10 in the decisive fourth quarter, and helped the Heat overcome an early 14-4 deficit with a 37-14 run to take control. Bam Adebayo added 24 points and 11 rebounds, Tyler Herro had 18, Jaime Jaquez Jr. contributed 14 and Ware finished with 13 points and 15 boards.
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 added 14.
Miami’s victory came despite the absence of Norman Powell, who was sidelined with a right groin strain.
The Heat host the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday, while Houston visits Washington on Monday.
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