4 Killer mistakes the Miami Heat cannot repeat next season

4. Blown fourth quarter leads

In 2022-23, the Heat outscored their opponents by 4.8 points per 100 possessions in the fourth quarter. That flipped in 2023-24, when the Heat ranked second to last in the NBA in fourth-quarter net rating, being outscored by an average of 7 points per 100 possessions in the final period. 

Consequently, the Heat were 15-24 in games where they were outscored in the final quarter, some of those losses coming against lottery-bound teams.

Miami struggled against teams with a top-five winning record, finishing with a 17-24 in those matchups. They were unable to secure a win against the Celtics, Nuggets, Timberwolves, and Thunder, and only managed to win one game out of three against the Bucks.

However, what sets the Heat apart is their ability to dominate against weaker opponents. They showcased their strength by achieving an impressive 22-9 record this season against teams with a losing record. This highlights their capability to take care of business against inferior teams. But, the challenge for the Heat this season has been competing against tougher opponents.

Truth is, if the Heat can’t find a way to win against more of the best teams, then they have no chance of winning the franchise's fourth championship.