A host of new faces showed promise in the Miami Heat’s loss to the Charlotte Hornets.
Playing without starters Goran Dragic and Justise Winslow, the Miami Heat fell just short on the road against the Charlotte Hornets.
Tyler Johnson also didn’t play, while Hassan Whiteside and Dion Waiters saw limited minutes. With Josh Richardson, Josh McRoberts and Luke Babbitt also sidelined, there were plenty of opportunities for the players fighting for a spot on the final roster.
The Heat started slowly, trailing 33-19 after the first quarter, but managed to turn things around and trailed 74-72 heading into the fourth.
Down the stretch whilst the Hornets were fielding mostly starters, the Heat fielded D-Leaguers and players with non-guaranteed contracts. The fact that they were able to hold their own should be very encouraging for all involved.
Reserve guard Rodney McGruder again impressed with 19 points in 36 minutes off the bench as the bulk of the minutes went to guys on the bubble.
For the game, the Heat attempted a preseason high 41 three-pointers, however converted at just a 29.3 percent clip. As a team they shot 36 percent overall from the field.
Charlotte was led by Kemba Walker with 17 points and six assists and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist who had 10 points and 13 rebounds.
The Heat have no time for rest, returning home to play host to the Philadelphia 76ers on Friday night.