In Game 1 of their playoff series, the Miami Heat faced a significant challenge as they took on the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavaliers, known for their explosive offense, showcased their superiority with a commanding 121-100 win. Despite shooting 49% overall, including 42% on three-pointers, the Heat struggled defensively, allowing the Cavaliers to exploit their weak spots. Standout performances from Ty Jerome, Donovan Mitchell, and Darius Garland, who combined for 85 points, overshadowed the Heat's efforts. Miami needs to improve its defense and limit turnovers as the series progresses into Game 2 on Wednesday.
The top-seeded Cavaliers, the league's highest scoring team at 122 points per game, shot 51 percent from the field and 42 percent on threes, never trailed in the final three quarters.
The Heat hung around for a while but gave up too many second-chance points, committed too many mindless miscues (14 turnovers) and couldn't stop Cleveland's offense from behind the three-point line.
As TNT's Kenny Smith noted, the Heat overextended its defense to try to prevent Cavaliers' three-pointers, which allowed the Cavs too many open lanes to the basket.
Tyler Herro managed just four points in the second half after a 17-point first half, finishing 7 for 18 from the field on a 21-point night.
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