In an unconventional loss to Washington on Saturday, the Miami Heat took their foot off the gas in an outcome that seemed to be within their grasps.
Up 63-47 and with under seven minutes remaining in the fourth, the Heat squandered a 24-point second half lead. following several defensive miscues and ill-advised fouls.
Of course, the officiating was another part of it, as it’ll always factor into wins and losses but the reality is that Miami had a slew of opportunities to come away with a road win.
However, they simply just couldn’t.
Nonetheless, Washington should receive some credit for storming back, as they took a 103-100 lead with twelve seconds remaining. Shortly after, the Heat gave the final shot to Jimmy Butler, who was just one point shy of achieving a third straight 30 point night.
He would take a potential game-tying three pointer over Montrezl Harrell that missed before time expired.