The Miami Heat beat the Toronto Raptors 112 to 109 on Saturday. The game looked like it was going to be a blow out for Miami as they were leading by much as 24 points. However, the Raptors made a furious comeback and took this game to the wire before the Heat prevailed. So here are my pros and cons from the game.
Miami Heat Beat Toronto Raptors 112 to 109 – Pros
Koloko Tussle Sparks the Raptors – It was really a weird play. Christian Koloko was going for the offensive rebound and Caleb Martin of the Heat ends up tying him up and sort of tossing him to the ground. He than walks over and stands over Koloko trying to intimidate him or something. However, Koloko gets right up and the next thing you know they are both wrestling each other into the stands. Players from both teams came flying out and after the refs got everyone under control, both Koloko and Martin were tossed out of the game. However, for the Raptors, Koloko standing up to Martin who is known for his chippy play and cheap shots (see Scottie Barnes last year) woke them up. After that, they played with intensity and battled back and put the Heat on their heels and almost won the game. It was something to see!
Precious Achiuwa Played with Force – He had a nice game! His stat line was 18 points, 11 rebounds, and had a plus/minus of plus 16. The heat had no real answer for him. When he plays like this, he is really elite. He needs to do this on a consistent basis. If you does, watch out NBA! I am looking forward to seeing him tonight against the Heat again. I am hoping he goes off on his old club.
Miami Heat Beat Toronto Raptors 112 to 109 – Cons
First Half Perimeter Defense was Gross – It really was and as a result, Miami had a 71 to 50 lead by half. The Raptors were making role players like Max Strus look like superstars. However, as seen in the second half, the Raptors need to hang their hat on defense. If they play hard defense, they can beat any team in the league. However, if they slack off a bit then they could get themselves in big holes as witnessed by this game. The perimeter and three point defense has to be better!
Scottie Barnes Injury – I think most of us were holding our breath when he had to be helped off the court in the second quarter. However, the X rays were negative and seems like he has an ankle sprain. It was the same ankle he hurt prior to training camp. The Raptors need to be cautious with him and give him time to recover. There were reports that he was not walking in a walking boot or anything like that and that he was even wearing flip flops. So perhaps the injury is not that serious but take no chances with him as he needs to be healthy when he returns to the court. Because as Scottie goes, so do the Raptors!
Conclusion
Saturday’s loss was a moral victory and a wake up call on how they need to play. They need to be defense first and play with intensity on that end. If they do, they will get their fair share of easy offensive opportunities as a result. Also, with Chris Boucher potentially coming back, will also help the team. And if Scottie Barnes cannot play, I would love to see Precious Achiuwa get the start. I think he might do quite well against his former team. We shall see!
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