Miami Heat vs. Memphis Grizzlies: Five Major Takeaways

A look at the five biggest takeaways from the Miami Heat’s victory over the Memphis Grizzlies

The Miami Heat defeated the Memphis Grizzlies to earn their third consecutive win, but it wasn’t pretty.

With Tyler Herro sidelined after the first quarter, Miami’s lead slowly vanished. They got the job done 108-102, improving to 4-4 on the season.

Here’s a look at five major takeaways:

1. The loss of Herro is critical

The star guard is averaging a career-high 25.3 points but sustained an injury at the end of the first quarter. He was ruled out with a right ankle sprain, finishing the night with 6 points on 2 of 4 shooting. For Heat fans, the hope is that Herro will miss minimal time.

2. Bam Adebayo’s offensive dominance was not a one-time occurrence

Adebayo recorded a triple double in Monday’s win against the Washington Wizards. He continued the offensive showcase with a 30-point performance against Memphis. He outplayed the reigning Defensive Player of the Year, Jaren Jackson Jr., who finished with 28 points and five personal fouls.

3. Kyle Lowry showed up in the absence of Herro

Lowry has received backlash this season for his lack of contributions on the offensive end. However, the veteran responded to the criticism with a near triple double performance in the victory. He recorded 17 points, 11 rebounds, and 9 assists on 4 of 7 shooting from three-point range.

4. Haywood Highsmith is looking to secure a starting spot

The Heat remain undefeated, with Highsmith starting at power forward. Veteran Kevin Love began the season, but Highsmith appears to have taken the spot. His elite defense on all levels trumps Love’s skillset at this point in his career. He concluded the game with 14 points and three blocks.

5. Turnovers are beginning to act as a problem

For the fourth consecutive game, Miami finished with more than 15 turnovers. In tonight’s contest, Adebayo and Lowry led with a combined eight of their 19. For the Heat to contend down the stretch, cleaning up these numbers is essential.

Watch The Play That Caused Heat's Tyler Herro To Miss Remainder Of Grizzlies Game

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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