Here are five key takeaways from the Miami Heat’s commanding 134-93 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday night at Kaseya Center. The win marked the beginning of a four-game homestand, snapped a two-game losing streak, and brought the Heat to a .500 record at 10-10. The Heat will continue their homestand against the Phoenix Suns on Saturday:
- Record-Breaking Offensive Performance: The Heat’s offense, which has struggled this season, erupted in one of the best displays in franchise history. They poured in 134 points, shooting an impressive 57.8% from the field and 51.1% (24-of-47) from beyond the arc. They also set a franchise record with 42 assists and tied a record with 24 three-pointers in a single game. The 41-point win was the third-largest margin of victory in franchise history.
- Tyler Herro Shines: Herro was the catalyst for the Heat’s offensive explosion, scoring 21 points in the third quarter alone. He finished the game with 31 points, including a career-high matching seven three-pointers in the third, helping the Heat build a commanding lead. Herro’s performance helped set a franchise record for most threes in a quarter.
- Jimmy Butler’s Return: After missing a game due to knee soreness, Butler returned to lead the Heat with 17 points, nine rebounds, and five assists in just 29 minutes. His return was pivotal, and he helped the Heat regain their rhythm, contributing to their dominant win over the Lakers.
- Efficient Performance from Bam Adebayo: Adebayo, who had struggled with his shooting this season, turned in a solid performance with 14 points on 6-of-8 shooting, 10 rebounds, and seven assists in just 25 minutes. His efficient play in the first half helped the Heat take control early, and they didn’t look back.
- LeBron James and Lakers Struggles: Despite LeBron James putting up 29 points, eight assists, and five rebounds, his struggles in Miami continued. James, who has a 2-8 record in Miami since leaving the Heat in 2014, couldn’t carry the Lakers past the Heat. His co-star, Anthony Davis, had a tough night, managing only eight points on 3-of-14 shooting.
In a dominant and historic victory, the Heat showed what they’re capable of when firing on all cylinders, especially against a Lakers team that struggled defensively.
