"With how much of a shell the Miami Heat's defense has been of itself over the last few games, fans are learning a harsh lesson about Bam Adebayo that Erik Spoelstra probably already knew. It's about just how important Bam Adebayo is to the team. Most understand that Bam is a versatile defender. However, they're also beginning to comprehend just how elite a defender and how important he is to the Heat's defense."
"Over the last five games (including the contest in which Bam only played eight minutes), the Heat have allowed an average of 120 points per game. In their last four, they've allowed at least 130 in each contest. Taking it a step further, the Heat's defensive rating has fallen from 3rd best in the league during the first seven games of the season (with Bam) to 13th now. In their last five games specifically, the Heat has the 8th worst defensive rating in the league."
"The good news for the Heat is that it appears as if help is on the way. Both Tyler Herro and Bam traveled with the team to New York, and, theoretically, I suppose that does mean there's at least an outside chance that they can suit up for the Heat on Monday. Whether that will actually happen remains to be seen. However, it does indicate that both are inching closer to a return to the lineup."
Bam Adebayo's absence has coincided with a sharp defensive decline for the Miami Heat. Over the last five games, the Heat have allowed an average of 120 points per game, and in the last four they have surrendered at least 130 points in each contest. The team's defensive rating dropped from 3rd best in the league during the first seven games to 13th overall, and in the most recent five games the Heat hold the eighth-worst defensive rating. Offense has remained prolific, averaging 130 points per game over the last five games. Both Tyler Herro and Bam traveled with the team to New York and may return to the lineup soon, which would restore the team's defensive anchor.
Read at All U Can Heat
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