The Miami Heat entered Friday’s game determined to win. Miami started the first quarter strong with 40 points in the period. And never looked back from there. They executed well on both ends of the floor from start to finish. The Washington Wizards had no answer for the Heat. With the game out of reach, the Wizards pulled their starters in the third period. The win moves Miami to 8-14 for the season.
With that said, here are my three takeaways from Friday’s game.
Bam sets the tone
There’s no question that Bam Adebayo is talented. He definitely proved that in Jimmy Butler’s absence. However, the issue is he often plays too passive. Friday night was a different story. Bam used his quickness to his advantage by beating his defender off the dribble and down the court. In the first quarter, he had 11 made free throw attempts, which is the most by any player this season. He slowed down in the second half but Miami was still in full control.
Bam Adebayo ended the night with 21 points, four rebounds, three assists, and two blocks.
Nunn back in the rotation
With Avery Bradley sidelined, it opened up minutes for Kendrick Nunn. Nunn made the most of his opportunity on Friday night. He played very aggressively on both ends of the floor. Offensively, he continued to put pressure on the Wizards’ defense by constantly attacking the rim. Credit to Nunn for staying ready and making the most of his opportunity.
Nunn’s in the bag tonight pic.twitter.com/IRwlu2RqEz
— Miami HEAT (@MiamiHEAT) February 6, 2021
Nunn finished with 25 points, eight rebounds, and two steals.
Slowing down on Beal
Stopping Bradley Beal was obviously the Heat’s number one priority on Friday. Every time Beal got the ball, the team would trap him. And they contested every shot he attempted. It ended up being a frustrating night for the Wizards all-star guard. He scored his first bucket in the third period after missing his first 13 attempts.
Beal finished the night with seven points on 1-of-14 shooting.
Dragic goes down
As good as the night was going for the Heat, they got bad news in the fourth quarter. Goran Dragic went down with a sprained right ankle and did not return. The results of the x-rays returned negative. His status for the next game is questionable. Should Dragic miss time, it may lead to Tyler Herro‘s return to the starting lineup.
Next up: The New York Knicks. Game tips off at 1 pm ET.
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