Miami Heat vs. Atlanta Hawks: Five Major Takeaways

A look at the five biggest takeaways from the Miami Heat’s victory over the Atlanta Hawks

The Miami Heat claimed their fourth consecutive victory over Trae Young and the Atlanta Hawks, 117-109.

Here’s a look at five major takeaways:

1. Bam Adebayo proved his worth as the No. 1 option

In the absence of co-stars Jimmy Butler and Tyler Herro, Adebayo showed his value as the top option in the Heat’s offense. He finished the night with 26 points, 17 rebounds, two blocks, and two steals. When Butler returns, his offensive role will decrease, but his impact will remain steady.

2. Jaime Jaquez Jr. is showing promise as a starter in the NBA

The rookie out of UCLA continues to prove why the No. 18 pick was too late for his talent. His confidence and veteran-like presence are the keys to his success. He scored 20 points on 47.1 percent shooting. While Herro is sidelined, Jaquez’s efforts are an essential piece of Miami’s system.

3. The Heat were able to close out a game

After a multitude of games where the Heat fell short due to their inability to sustain leads, they appear back on track. In tonight’s victory, they led by 11 points entering the final quarter, winning by eight points.

4. Haywood Highsmith is the Heat’s most well-rounded defender

Although Adebayo is the most talented defensive player on the Heat’s roster, Highsmith’s ability to guard all five positions is unique. He guarded star Trae Young for the majority of the game, who finished the night 9 of 16 shooting. Highsmith also recorded two steals and one block.

5. Coach Erik Spoelstra deserves credit for finding ways to win despite countless injuries

Miami is no stranger to winning with a depleted roster, thanks to coach Spoelstra. This season, Adebayo, Butler, Herro, and Caleb Martin missed games, but the Heat hold a 5-4 record.

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

He can be reached at ampasciolla@gmail.com or follow him on Instagram @anthonypasci

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