Heat want Kyle Lowry to be more aggressive with Tyler Herro sidelined

In light of guard Tyler Herro’s absence for the next two weeks, the Miami Heat are looking for a more assertive approach from veteran guard Kyle Lowry, reports Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald.

Despite contributing significantly with averages of 6.9 points, 5.3 assists, and 4.9 rebounds, leading the team in deflections and drawn charges, Lowry’s offensive output has been modest, attempting only 5.8 shots per game.

This marks his lowest shot output since the 2008/09 season.

“At this point in his career, it’s all about winning,” coach Erik Spoelstra said. “That’s what I really love about Kyle. He’ll sacrifice points, he’ll sacrifice stats. He does so many other things that impact winning.

“With that said, I don’t want him to be an afterthought, either. His aggressiveness and finding those moments in between where he can create some chaos is one of the greatest strengths that he’s had over the course of his entire career.”

Lowry’s usage percentage, currently at 10.6, is the lowest among all Heat players this season, notes Chiang. This figure not only represents the lowest for Lowry this season but would also mark the lowest in his entire career.

“But Kyle is smart and he knows his aggressiveness is important to our team,” Spoelstra said. “The aggressiveness comes from the attacks, getting in the paint. But also being a recipient behind the three-point line and aggressively hunting those open catch-and-shoot threes.

“That’s really important for our team. It’s part of his brilliance. He’s been able to find ways to be effective on the ball or off the ball, and that’s important for our team.”