The Miami Heat are rolling full steam ahead after a 106-92 victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Monday. The Heat took advantage of Joel Embiid’s absence and secured the win to help push them a step closer into the next round. Despite the game being in Philadelphia’s favor through the first half, the Heat responded with a second half takeover without hesitation and got it done.
Recap
Heat fans got to see a familiar playoff star erupt in the opening game of the series. Despite recently suffering an illness, Tyler Herro had a phenomenal game off the bench scoring 25 points on 9 of 17 shooting and even went 4 for 6 from the three-point line. His teammates also got a piece of the spectacular game he was playing as he dished out seven assists. Games like these would really help Miami take over the series and he really has made it clear to head coach Erik Spoelstra and the rest of the team that he can provide valuable minutes off of the bench.
Due to the 76ers lacking their MVP caliber big man down low, Bam Adebayo also put up some impressive numbers following his great game five against the Atlanta Hawks. Bam finished with 24 points on 80% shooting and went a perfect 8-8 from the free throw line. Adebayo’s ability to get the 76ers to foul him due to the size advantage he possesses played a big role in the Heat win. When he knocks down his free throws, that creates an instant winning formula for Miami. Adebayo also grabbed 12 rebounds which led the game. He can be the big man to take over for the playoffs and help the Heat make it to the conference finals.
James Harden was also kept at bay for most of the night as he only shot 5 for 13 from the field. This forced Philly to look towards other players for production and they got it from Tyrese Maxey and Tobias Harris who scored 19 and 27 points respectively. However, the Heat keeping the remaining big time Sixers players from producing big numbers was crucial in this win and is a vital part in the rest of the series going forward.
Embiid has been projected to return as soon as game three or four which could be huge for Philadelphia. At the same time, the Heat need to take advantage of every moment he is not on the floor like they did Monday night. This will help them in the future because Spoelstra and the Heat coaching staff will have a new problem on their hands once he returns to the floor. The Heat also do not have a time of return currently for Kyle Lowry who still has not played since game three against Atlanta.