Tyler Herro delivered a commanding performance, scoring 32 points with seven 3-pointers, as the Miami Heat defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 119-98 on Saturday night. Miami’s record improved to 20-17, while Portland dropped to 13-25.
Nikola Jovic contributed significantly off the bench, recording 21 points and eight rebounds. The Heat shot 47.8% from the field and knocked down 19 of their 44 attempts from beyond the arc, maintaining control throughout the game.
Portland narrowed a 20-point halftime deficit to just four points in the third quarter, thanks to Anfernee Simons’ 17-point explosion in the period. Simons finished as Portland’s top scorer with 28 points, including seven 3-pointers. Despite his efforts, Miami regained its footing and carried a 94-83 lead into the final quarter.
The Heat were without forward Jimmy Butler, who is currently serving a seven-game suspension for conduct detrimental to the team. Josh Richardson, sidelined with a heel injury since November, was also ruled out. Despite these absences, Miami secured its third consecutive win after a previous three-game skid.
Portland, returning from a grueling five-game road trip, faced significant challenges due to injuries. Jerami Grant (facial contusion), Deandre Ayton (calf), and Robert Williams III (illness) were unavailable. Additionally, Matisse Thybulle remains out with an ankle injury and will be re-evaluated in two weeks.
Jovic and Terry Rozier added to the Heat’s offensive surge with back-to-back 3-pointers, helping Miami build a 66-48 halftime lead. The Heat sank 13 triples in the first half alone, establishing an insurmountable advantage.
Bam Adebayo added 13 points, 11 rebounds, and six assists, while Haywood Highsmith scored 14 points and recorded five steals. Miami’s defense held the Trail Blazers to just 37.9% shooting from the field and 28.9% from 3-point range.
Portland’s Deni Avdija tallied 15 points, 12 rebounds, and five assists, while rookie Donovan Clingan contributed eight points and 10 rebounds. However, the Trail Blazers struggled to match Miami’s depth and efficiency. Kris Murray was a bright spot off the bench for Portland, scoring 10 points on 5-of-7 shooting.
