Last year the Miami Heat were the Dark Horse of the NBA. They have found themselves in the exact same spot again this year. The only difference, the experience of a Finals run now on their resume. Their slow start attributed mostly to the on-going pandemic as well as injuries have stretched the team thin. They began the season much further down the rankings than anticipated. As of late they have come on strong to make a push up the Eastern Conference standings.
Jimmy Does it all
Coming off their recent win streak with have a key win against the Jazz as a result of an incredible game by Jimmy Butler. He put up 33 points 10 rebounds and 8 assists to lead his team past the Utah Jazz who have the best record in the NBA so far. It took some late game heroics from Jimmy to seal the victory but they got it done. Their win reminded me of their playoff run the previous year. Jimmy’s minutes during that run were above 36 mpg while his usage rate was near maxed out which was what kept that run alive. They are going to need to rely on him again moving forward for them to make another title run.
How Will it EndÂ
The east has been mostly a game of musical chairs this year. The arrival of a serious title contender in the Brooklyn Nets, has caused a shift in power. Miami has all the offensive firepower needed alongside a top notch defense to be able to compete with anyone. They have a two of the top two-way players in the league surrounded by a ton of shooting. Miami has proven themselves capable to win against anyone but there’s always room to improve. Rumors have been circling the Miami Heat all year long about possible trade options. A few of the players they have been pursuing have also dropped hints about their desire to play in South Beach. Those moves have yet to happen but keep an eye out for the Heat to make a move before the trade deadline as they maneuver to become a serious title contender…again.