Miami Heat’s bench comes up big in opener

The Miami Heat’s bench unit impressed big-time in their opening night victory over the Magic.

Due to its unexpected mass exodus, the Miami Heat brought in a host of new faces this offseason. As a result, it saw the Heat feature an exceptional amount of depth. This depth came to the fore in the team’s opening night in which the Heat prevailed 108-96 over the Orlando Magic. On a night where the Heat featured nine players, three of the four coming off the bench are newcomers this season.

Tyler Johnson continued on from his impressive pre-season, posting 15 points on 7-of-11 shooting. He also had six rebounds, three assists and two steals. Johnson’s 28 minutes on the court were exactly what the Heat have come to expect from him. Constantly attacking, great hustle on the defensive end and a terrific efficiency rate when it comes to scoring. Johnson had a usage rate of just 18.2 and was able to score in a variety of ways.

The first of the newcomers off the bench was veteran James Johnson, who impressed in his role as the backup 4. Johnson contributed 11 points, including 2-of-4 from downtown, to go along with six assists and two rebounds in 25 minutes. Johnson demonstrated his ability to not only put the ball on the floor, but set up his teammates for scoring opportunities. His connections with the Heat’s center’s rolling to the rim were exceptional.

One of those Heat centers whom Johnson has already formed a great connection with is another newcomer, Willie Reed. Reed’s sheer athleticism proved a great partner alongside Johnson, with the two connecting on multiple alley-oop finishes in the second half. Reed finished with 11 points, six rebounds and block in his 17 minutes on the floor. These two playing together will something to look out for in the coming games.

Rounding out the bench was Rodney McGruder, playing his first regular season game for the Heat. McGruder’s numbers don’t jump off the page, posting six points, three rebounds and two steals in 24 minutes. But his effort on the defensive end was terrific. And although his shot wasn’t falling, he played within the offence of the side and didn’t force anything unnecessary.

The Heat’s performance was even more impressive considering the quality of players unavailable for the game. Shooting guards Josh Richardson and Wayne Ellington are still rehabbing from their respective injuries, as is forward Josh McRoberts.

Further, forward Derrick Williams, another newcomer, was not included in the rotation despite starting multiple games in the preseason. He is another player who can provide a contribution this season.

So whilst the Heat’s starters had some standout performances, the bench unit was critical in providing a spark. Outscoring the Magic’s bench 46-17 was definitely a significant factor in the outcome of the game.

Next: Centers still in fashion in Miami

The Heat will be looking for more of the same in their home opener on Friday against the Charlotte Hornets.