There is no question that the Miami Heat’s season opener was a major disappointment, to say the least. After an entire offseason in hopes of getting fully healthy as a group, the optimism was high for the Heat heading into the 2024-25 campaign. This notion was reassured by the roster’s excitement to bounce back, in what is still set to be a redemption season.
The loss at home against the in-state rival Orlando Magic seemed like a slap in the face to the entire fanbase. It seemed like the player’s, starting with Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo, were completely uninvolved. The activity level was discouraging, especially with the team’s biggest leaders.
Their dismal performance came on Pat Riley’s night, where the team honored him at halftime in lieu of “The Pat Riley Court at Kaseya Center” unveiling. With all things considered, it was painful to be a part of. Miami played with no sense of urgency, heart or passion on both ends of the floor.
The Magic on the other hand, seized the moment and ran the Heat off their own floor led by rising superstar Paolo Banchero. The game raised criticism by fans and media, including the likes of national analyst Bill Simmons.
Is it a way too early overreaction from Simmons, or is it justified? Considering the Heat are just one game into their season, it is far too early to tell. However, his enthusiasm in Orlando taking charge of Florida after their most recent win seems a bit too much. Miami is 6-4 against the Magic in their last 10 games.
It comes down to the fact that this core is entering their sixth season together. The long building chemistry shows that there should be a short leash in evaluating where the team stands early on. Unlike past years where the Heat have been a .500 team in the standings, there should be no more excuses when it comes to their status in the league. Riley put an emphasis on availability heading into the new campaign.
Now that this roster is indeed at full strength for the most part, it is crucial to turn this around sooner rather than later.
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Just before the start of the season on his pod BS said he bought in on Miami— the preseason looked good and he was buying a Jimmy f-you season.
The second half of the first game sucked a lotta wind outta my sails but this ship is still sailing. bS is a dope sometimes.
People can say whatever the hell they want.
Nobody here gives a fk.
I don’t believe this team is dead at all but I have to say that I’m not a fan of the new Spo approach.
Like I said before I believe the Heat should lean into what has always brought them the most success, being a defensive, rebounding team first.
I think they should move one of Terry or Tyler to the bench put Highsmith in their place and double down on defense and rebounding.
And on offense play through your 2 best players.
Yes our 2 best players slow the game down and the offense isn’t a thing of beauty but in the end 2 finals appearances in 4 years should speak for itself.
People complain that they were a play-in team the last 2 seasons but I believe it was due to all the injuries that occurred during that period.
If not for all the injuries I believe we were a 4-5 seed the last 2 seasons.
In regard to all the injuries, I believe playing small and only playing 9 guys every game were the main contributing factors.
Play bigger, play 10 guys, return to a rebounding defense first identity and play through your 2 best players.
Just my 2 cents.