Billy Donovan and Nikola Vucevic lament late mistakes that led to a heartbreaking loss to the Heat

Both Billy Donovan and Nikola Vucevic pointed out the late crucial plays that collapsed the Bulls against Miami.

© Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

The Chicago Bulls were on the verge of pulling a dramatic comeback victory against the Miami Heat on Saturday night. After being down as much as 15 in the second quarter and 11 to start the final frame, the Bulls were on their way to securing their back-to-back wins against the Heat with 1:28 left and leading by two, 116-114.

But unfortunately, Jimmy Butler had other plans. The former Bull delivered a step-back game-winner to lift Miami at the buzzer and stun Chicago in a heartbreaker.

JIMMY BUTLER GAME WINNER.

pic.twitter.com/9MytPcW5wf

— Hoop Central (@TheHoopCentral) December 17, 2023

Amid a satisfying late effort to recover their footing in the game, the Bulls can only blame themselves for the succeeding critical moments they fumbled when they were up against the Heat.

Inattentive plays

As crunch time entered, the Bulls went careless securing the ball by allowing the Heat to crash the offensive boards. Leading 111-108 with 3:33 remaining, Chicago didn't trigger their aggressiveness on both ends of the floor. From there, Miami was able to snag five offensive rebounds, which ultimately propelled them to the clutch win.

Coach Billy Donovan also took accountability when DeMar DeRozan committed a painful turnover with 0:35 left, placing both sides in a deadlock.

“That [offensive boards by Heat] was the hugest part,” said Donovan. “The three or four offensive rebounds that led to baskets when we could have given ourselves an opportunity to score; that didn’t allow us a chance to extend the lead. I wish I could have helped DeMar more [also]. I was in there too late when I saw the trap coming.”

Where’s the help?

Nikola Vucevic also expressed his remorse about the way they defended Butler when it was obvious that the star forward was looking to drain the last shot for the Bulls.

Due to the absence of help defense, Butler freed himself to sink the walk-off jumper for Miami.

“It happened quick,” said Vucevic. “They got the rebound and brought it down the floor and he made a good shot. In that moment probably should have sent someone over when it got to two, three (seconds). It would have been hard for him to find somebody else.”

Chicago Bulls loses in heartbreaking fashion to the Miami Heat