3 Reasons why Heat's preseason success should translate in games that matter

The Miami Heat aim to convert several themes from the preseason into increased victories during the regular season, following their entry into the playoffs as the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference for the past two consecutive seasons. Here are some revelations and things the Heat can do to stay in the winner's circle this season:

• The team had a poor shot profile focusing too much on midrange shots. They have to take more shots near the basket.
• Shift to increase 3-point and rim-shot attempts.
• Capitalize on off-ball movement to enhance spacing.
• Improve overall shot distribution to elevate offensive efficiency and performance.

Adjust shot diet: have a more efficient shot profile

Miami’s offensive struggles stem from ineffective processes and player availability, leading to a drop in offensive rating from 114.2 to 112.2 last season. The team had the least effective shot profile in the league, characterized by excessive midrange attempts and a lack of shots near the basket.

In response, the coaching staff has revamped their offensive strategy to prioritize 3-point attempts and shots at the rim, while minimizing inefficient two-point shots.

This strategic shift has been evident in the preseason, with the Heat averaging high shot attempts at the rim and 3-point attempts. Key players such as shooting guard Duncan Robinson have been crucial for spacing the floor along with playmaking.

The Heat also needs to apply more pressure to the rim, and when it's a challenge, they must explore alternative methods, such as utilizing cuts and screens.

Improving shot distribution to enhance offensive performance, will help the team to break free from their recent ranking among the bottom ten in offensive rating.

Player availability

The majority of the Heat's regular players participated in four out of the five exhibition games. A notable change can be observed in the management of Jimmy Butler, who took part in four preseason games this year, contrasting with his absence from any preseason games last year. Heat president Pat Riley emphasized at the beginning of the previous offseason the necessity to address the issue of player availability.

The decision to have the regulars compete in four preseason games, including both matches of a back-to-back series, appeared to convey a clear message. Following a challenging season that saw the team set a franchise record with 35 different starting lineups due to injuries and other complications, a key aspect of the Heat's strategy for improvement is ensuring that their top players are available for a greater number of games.

Faster pace

One approach the Heat is employing to create easier scoring opportunities near the basket is increasing their transition play. This strategy involves a concerted effort to enhance their pace of play. Compared to (103.5 possessions per 48 minutes). After recording an average of 96.9 possessions per 48 minutes, the Heat's pace has risen to 104.2 possessions per 48 minutes in the current preseason. This pace would have positioned them as the fastest team in the league last season.

Consequently, the Heat has managed to average an impressive 25.4 fast-break points per game this preseason. However, it remains uncertain whether this accelerated style will persist.

Play defense and force turnovers

Miami's emphasis on forcing turnovers is not a recent development, as they have consistently ranked among the top ten teams in the NBA for opponent turnover rates over the past four seasons. However, after experiencing a decline in this aspect of their game during the latter part of last season, culminating in the 14th-highest opponent turnover percentage.

The Heat is making a concerted effort to regain their defensive strength. This preseason, the team demonstrated a return to form, achieving the highest opponent turnover rate in the league by the end of their exhibition games.

Also, they managed to record a minimum of 15 steals in each of their five games, a feat they accomplished only once during the previous regular season. By forcing turnovers, Miami not only disrupts their opponents but also enhances their offensive opportunities, allowing for a faster pace and easier scoring chances.

While it is unlikely that the Heat will consistently achieve 15 steals in every game, maintaining a position among the league leaders in forcing turnovers would signify a positive development for their defensive strategy.