Heat vs. Suns Takeaways: Tyler Herro's Disappointing Outing Plays Key Role In The Loss

Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro's lackluster performance was a prominent reason for Friday evening's defeat

The Miami Heat were handed a frustrating loss on Friday evening by the Phoenix Suns, 113-97.

Here's a look at five major takeaways:

1. Tyler Herro's disappointing outing played a key role in the loss.

The former Sixth Man of the Year is praised for his improvements this season, but his progression crumbled tonight. He tallied nine points on 4 of 17 shooting and 14.3 percent from three-point range. It's important to note that he provided solid playmaking with six assists on one turnover. For Miami to take down playoff-caliber teams, Herro's consistency is a necessity.

2. Bam Adebayo found his rhythm after the opening quarter.

After a scoreless first quarter, Adebayo caught fire for the remainder of the game. He finished with 28 points and 11 rebounds on 57.9 percent shooting. His best minutes came in the second quarter, where he scored 17 points. His efforts were not enough to make up for the mediocre displays of some of his teammates.

3. Grayson Allen torched Miami's defense.

Miami is becoming accustomed to unexpected players performing at a high level against them. Allen is the latest example of this issue. He concluded the night with 31 points and two blocks on 9 of 14 shooting from beyond the arc. Not to mention, 21 of his points came in the first half.

4. Devin Booker and Bradley Beal stepped up in the absence of Kevin Durant.

Without their top scorer in Durant, Phoenix's backcourt tandem thrived on the offensive end. The duo combined for 45 points on stellar efficiency. Beal added eight rebounds and nine assists to his statline, while Booker recorded double-digit assists and two steals. This game provided the Suns with confidence in their current lineup, which has dealt with injuries.

5. Kevin Love is an exhilarating spark plug off the bench.

The Miami veteran had one of his most striking performances of the year. Highlighted by a 15-point first quarter, Love ended the night with 20 points and seven rebounds. He is providing unexpected contributions when Adebayo is resting. Love has carved out a role in the second unit, even with the Heat at full health.

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Anthony Pasciolla works as a contributing writer to Inside the Heat.

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