Miami Heat: Brandon Ingram’s Very Good, But Pelicans Are Very Bad

Miami Heat: Brandon Ingram’s Very Good, But Pelicans Are Very Bad

Ingram is averaging 25 points per game, the 12th best mark in the league. It is coming on 45-43-81 shooting splits from the field, three, and free throw line.

Ingram is having his best scoring and rebounding (6.5 RPG) season ever, plus when considering the jump in volume, one of his most efficient seasons.

He also attacks what the Heat struggle to defend. Against guards, Miami is one of the worst teams defending the rim, allowing 65 percent shooting within five feet.

Miami’s defense is also exceptionally average from 20-24 feet out, allowing 37 percent shooting. Both are areas where Ingram excels, shooting 51 percent inside 10 feet and a career-high 43 percent from three.

Despite all that, Miami’s defense allows the fewest points per game against opposing guards in the NBA. This defense is still a stout group and as previously mentioned, these are areas Ingram can take advantage of, though not ways the Pelicans score.

Even if Jimmy Butler returns (at the time of this writing, his status is unknown), the defense should remain sound. Miami’s defense ranked ninth against guards over the past three games.

So if the Heat should not be worried, why am I mentioning it?