Despite the absence of all-star LaMarcus Aldridge, the San Antonio Spurs prevailed over the Miami Heat.
Despite some encouraging signs, the Miami Heat fell short for the second straight game, losing 105-99 to the San Antonio Spurs.
The Heat started the game poorly, shooting just 35 percent in the first quarter to trail 24-19 at the first break. They gradually worked their way back into the game, having trailed at one stage by 16 points in the second period, 41-25. The Heat managed to level the game at 91 before Kawhi Leonard score 12 points in the final four minutes of the game as the Spurs prevailed.
Leonard finished with 27 points and six assists and Pau Gasol had his best game for the year since joining San Antonio, finishing with 20 points and 11 rebounds. Hassan Whiteside was again outstanding for the Heat, posting 27 points, 15 rebounds and four blocks. Goran Dragic also excelled, scoring 25 points to go along with five assists.
The Spurs bench proved to be pivotal, outscoring the Heat’s bench 43-14. This was led by Patty Mills, who notched 18 points including 4-of-6 from behind three. The Heat featured the same starting five for the third consecutive game, along with the same rotation of nine players in all.
Despite Whiteside’s 15 rebounds, the Heat lost the battle on the boards, 44-36.
The Heat have a day off before playing host to the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday night.