Miami Heat: Opposing Stars Going Through Defensive Gauntlet
By Isiah Curry
Just about all things have come together for the Miami Heat, as they’ve obtained a quick 5-1 start to the 2021-22 season. In recent years since the Big Three Era, that hasn’t always been the case — for which a typical Miami start would see them hovering around the .500 mark, only to eventually hit their stride after the All-Star break.
However, this current Miami Heat roster has, seemingly, erased those habits of old and are delivering an early statement to the Association.
Trending. Not Tons Of Concern About Duncan Robinson’s Shooting Slump. light
Even in moments where their offense would fall into the mud, their ability to persevere through those struggles makes it that much more impressive now.
It’s a dominant trait that they’ve showcased already, in part, with relentless and salivating defense. As many predicted, the Miami Heat were bound to be a team that could hang their hats on defense and thus far, they’re the only franchise who’s holding opponents to under 40 percent from the field.
They also have the second-lowest Opponent Effective Field-Goal Percentage in the league. To defend in an era of basketball that’s fixated on pace, space, and a stronger emphasis on quick-threes and transition-play, it’s incredible to witness what the Heat are doing on that side of the ball as a collective unit.