Heat vs. Warriors Takeaways: Miami's Defense Shut Down Golden State's Stars

The Miami Heat took down the Golden State Warriors by slowing down star guards Stephen Curry and Klay Thompson

The Miami Heat earned their fourth consecutive victory on Thursday evening against the Golden State Warriors, 114-102.

Here's a look at five major takeaways:

1. Miami's defense shut down Golden State's stars.

The Heat were able to overcome adversity in a matchup where multiple key contributors were sidelined. Their defensive efforts as a team excelled, despite a poor display from three-point range. Warriors superstar Stephen Curry finished the night with 13 points on 20 percent shooting. Meanwhile, Klay Thompson recorded 13 points on 4 of 11 shooting.

2. Jamal Cain had his best performance of the season.

Cain was battling for a roster spot at the beginning of the year. Now he is contributing at a high level in a convincing win. He concluded the game with 18 points, six rebounds, and two steals on 50 percent shooting in 28 minutes of action. Cain received the opportunity to thrive because of the absence of Jimmy Butler and Caleb Martin.

3. Tyler Herro displayed another All-Star-caliber outing.

Herro appears worthy of an All-Star selection after missing more than a dozen contests. He was a key piece of their dominant win, scoring 26 points along with seven rebounds on 10 of 18 shooting. However, his shot selection was questionable at times.

4. Jaime Jaquez Jr.'s reign of dominance continued.

One of the NBA's premier rookies is showing no signs of slowing down. Jaquez showcases elite traits on the offensive end as a 22-year-old. He wrapped up the night with 17 points, six assists, and five rebounds on 46.7 percent shooting. Jaquez could become a full-time starter if this level of play is sustained.

5. The Warriors rookie class appears promising.

Guard Brandin Podziemski, along with forward Trayce Jackson-Davis, are the newest members of Golden State's future. Podziemski, their latest first-round pick, scored 10 points on 44.4 percent shooting. Meanwhile, Jackson-Davis recorded 10 points, 11 rebounds, and two blocks.

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

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