Miami Heat vs. Los Angeles Lakers Takeaways: Anthony Davis' Dominance Falls Short In Igniting Comeback
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The Miami Heat defeated the Los Angeles Lakers on Wednesday evening, 110-96.
Here's a look at five major takeaways from the victory:
1. Anthony Davis' dominance against Bam Adebayo was not enough for a successful comeback.
Adebayo is viewed as one of the league's top big men, but it didn't appear that way in his display tonight. He finished the game with 15 points and seven rebounds on 35.7 percent shooting. Meanwhile, Davis dominated on both ends of the floor. The Lakers superstar recorded 29 points, 17 rebounds, six assists, five blocks, and three steals on efficient shooting. Adebayo is rarely overwhelmed in star-studded matchups, but Davis' dominance was too much to handle.
2. Nikola Jovic thrived with an increased opportunity.
Jovic has spent much of this season on the bench or in the G-League. However, due to multiple injuries in the forward room, the former No. 27 pick prospered in 28 minutes of action. He scored 15 points along with eight rebounds on 6 of 11 shooting. He played with confidence which could result in more playing time in the coming weeks.
3. Tyler Herro must find his rhythm prior to the postseason.
It's no secret that Herro can score the ball at a high volume, but his problem comes in the efficiency department. His inconsistencies from the field are often overlooked because of the lack of value placed on the regular season. Once Miami reaches the postseason, it could result in defeat due to the significance of every matchup. He scored 21 points on 36.8 percent shooting and 4 of 8 shooting from beyond the arc.
4. Los Angeles' roster has problems to solve before competing for an NBA championship.
Despite the impressive outings from Davis and guard Austin Reaves, the Lakers' glaring issues are clear. A lack of offensive firepower stands out, but it could solve itself when D'Angelo Russell and Rui Hachimura return. The inconsistencies from three-point range are concerning, as the team shot 13.3 percent in the game.
5. Miami's defense outweighed issues on the offensive end.
Mistakes made by the Heat's offense were hidden by the problems of LA's offense. Their defense forced the Lakers into more than 20 turnovers, thanks to their zone scheme. Miami's greatest problems came from inside the paint and the free throw line. They were outrebounded 50-39 while shooting 70.6 percent from the free throw line.
Anthony Pasciolla works as a contributing writer to Inside the Heat.
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