With how much of a shell the Miami Heat's defense has been of itself over the last few games, fans are learning a harsh lesson about Bam Adebayo that Erik Spoelstra probably already knew. It's about just how important Bam Adebayo is to the team.
Most understand that Bam is a versatile defender. However, they're also beginning to comprehend just how elite a defender and how important he is to the Heat's defense.
Over the last five games (including the contest in which Bam only played eight minutes), the Heat have allowed an average of 120 points per game. In their last four, they've allowed at least 130 in each contest.
Taking it a step further, the Heat's defensive rating has fallen from 3rd best in the league during the first seven games of the season (with Bam) to 13th now. In their last five games specifically, the Heat has the 8th worst defensive rating in the league.
While it does seem as if their offense hasn't missed much of a beat without Bam in the lineup, still averaging 130 points per game over their last five games, their defense has certainly suffered.
And, sure, the Heat's competition has stiffened up over the last few games with matchups against the Cleveland Cavaliers (twice) and New York Knicks, but the absence of Bam has clearly been felt.
Help is on the way for the Heat
The good news for the Heat is that it appears as if help is on the way. Both Tyler Herro and Bam traveled with the team to New York, and, theoretically, I suppose that does mean there's at least an outside chance that they can suit up for the Heat on Monday.
Whether that will actually happen remains to be seen. However, it does indicate that both are inching closer to a return to the lineup.
Considering how much the Heat has struggled in their last few games on the defensive end of the floor without Bam in the lineup, this is a team that desperately needs their anchor back in the fold. It also proves just how vulnerable they truly are on that end of the floor.
Perhaps most importantly, it demonstrates that, despite their promising start to this season, how much this team is in need of another star or much more depth, particularly in the frontcourt.
Miami has seemingly been able to survive without Herro in the lineup, but they won't be able to hold on much longer without Bam. It's time for fans to give him his much-needed credit.