Miami Heat Snap Franchise Assist Record En Route To 60-Point Victory Over Trail Blazers

Anthony Pasciolla | Mar 30, 2024

Mar 29, 2024; Miami, Florida, USA; Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo (13) drives to the basket past / Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

It was all smiles for the Miami Heat Friday, as they broke their single-game franchise record in assists (41) en route to a dominant 142-82 win over the Portland Trail Blazers.

From near-flawless ball movement on offense to disciplined defense on all levels, the Heat executed at their best in months. However, the win should not excite much, as the injury-ridden Blazers are one of the lowest-seeded teams in the West. Regardless of the circumstances, coach Erik Spoelstra and his team made a statement with the postseason nearing.

A 74-point first half for the Heat was highlighted by a combined 32 points from All-Star big man Bam Adebayo and star guard Terry Rozier. Adebayo's elite night concluded with 21 points, 11 rebounds, and nine assists on 75 percent shooting while Rozier tallied 22 points and six assists. Forward Haywood Highsmith also flourished, scoring 20 points on 5 of 6 shooting from three-point range in 27 minutes of action. A valuable portion of their playmaking came from veteran star Jimmy Butler, who finished with eight assists on no turnovers. Butler's scoring was a non-factor, as the star attempted a near-season-low four shots. Center Thomas Bryant and Patty Mills brought high energy to both ends of the floor, tallying 43 points as a tandem.

Meanwhile, Blazers center Deandre Ayton had a solid showcase with 18 points on 9 of 15 shooting. Rookie Scoot Henderson continued his rollercoaster opening year with a stat line of 20 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. The organization should accept defeat on the season, turning their focus to free agency.

Despite the phenomenal night, the Heat remain in the Eastern Conference's Play-In Tournament because of the Indiana Pacers' win over the Los Angeles Lakers. They return to action on Sunday night against the Washington Wizards (14-60).

Anthony Pasciolla is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He can be reached at ampasciolla@gmail.com or follow him on Instagram @anthony.pasciolla