Erik Spoelstra praised his team’s defense in the 115-105 win over the Houston Rockets on Saturday at Kaseya Center.
“The biggest thing … we held them to 22 in the fourth and then we don’t see it as a coincidence,” Spoelstra said. “All of a sudden guys start making plays on the other end … takes a little bit of the stress off … and guys just start to gain confidence.”
He highlighted the contributions of Bam Adebayo and Pelle Larsson in the final minutes. “Bam obviously was so pivotal, but Pelle was terrific in that fourth quarter … different guys had opportunities to make plays offensively. Wiggs had that big rebound that led to the and-one going down the other end.”
Spoelstra stressed the importance of defense throughout the game. “We have an opportunity to be a really good defensive team … we really have to commit to that wholeheartedly,” he said. “Together … rebounding is probably the number one key against that team. Kel’el did one of his better jobs in the zone, just communicating and protecting in that inner circle. Bam is super dynamic whether you play him at center or at the wing.”
On Larsson’s aggressive approach against Alperen Sengun, Spoelstra noted, “It started by him setting some screens … then the ball was able to move out of that … Pelle was able to put the ball on the floor and be aggressive in one-on-one situations. He was instrumental on both sides of the floor.”
Spoelstra also praised Andrew Wiggins’ defensive effort despite a mouth injury. “Wiggs were terrific at the top of the zone against Durant. I felt like that was one of the better defensive games you can put forth against an iconic scorer and he still ends up at 32. Take that with you, Wiggs.”
He acknowledged the team’s adjustments due to injuries. “I feel for Norm because he wants to be out there for all the games, especially these moments … we’ll treat him and see where he is after the week,” Spoelstra said regarding Norman Powell.
Miami overcame an early 14-4 deficit with a 37-14 run to take control. Adebayo finished with 24 points and 11 rebounds, Larsson scored 10 of his 20 points in the fourth, Tyler Herro had 18, Jaime Jaquez Jr. added 14, and Kel’el Ware recorded 13 points and 15 rebounds.
The Rockets, missing Jabari Smith Jr., were led by Kevin Durant with 32 points, eight assists, and six rebounds. Amen Thompson scored 20 and Reed Sheppard had 14.
The Heat will host the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday, while Houston visits Washington on Monday.
