Miami Heat vs. Chicago Bulls: Five Major Takeaways

A look at five of the biggest takeaways from the Miami Heat’s loss to the Chicago Bulls

The Miami Heat fell short to the Chicago Bulls on Saturday, breaking their seven-game win streak. Meanwhile, Chicago picks up a win after dropping three straight in the 102-97 victory.

Here’s a look at five major takeaways:

1. Bam Adebayo is cementing himself as an NBA superstar.

Adebayo’s defense was never in question, but his improvements on the offensive end this season are nothing short of amazing. He recorded 24 points on 8 of 12 shooting and 100 percent from the free throw line. The dominance provided on both ends of the floor earned him the No. 9 rank in NBA.com’s MVP ladder earlier this week.

2. Caleb Martin needs to find his footing.

In his second game back from injury, Martin struggled in his 15 minutes on the floor. He scored five points on 22.2 percent shooting and 1 of 4 from beyond the arc. For him to remain relevant in Miami’s crowded forward room, Martin’s X-factor ability must come to life.

3. The Heat are championship contenders once Tyler Herro returns.

After starting the regular season with a 1-4 record, Miami shifted gears. Much of which is without Herro. He sustained an ankle injury against the Memphis Grizzlies. Finding wins with him sidelined proves their potential dominance entering the postseason.

4. Zach LaVine did not present himself well against a potential suitor.

LaVine is expected to change teams by this year’s trade deadline. One of the teams with reported interest is Miami, but he did not fare well against them. He finished the night with 13 points and six assists on 3 of 7 shooting from three-point range.

5. Miami’s lead-holding failures prevail.

Beginning the game with a 22-1 lead but coming up short in the end is no surprise for Heat fans. Their biggest struggle so far is securing the game once they are in control. Tonight’s devastating five-point loss serves as a prime example.

The Heat will have a chance for redemption against Chicago in a second meeting on Monday evening.

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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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