Bam Adebayo Goes Down, Heat Struggle Against Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets
The Miami Heat returned to Denver, a place where they have historically struggled, aiming to secure their first regular-season victory there since 2016. Hopes were slightly lifted when Kasparas Jakucionis became available and was expected to potentially make his NBA debut.
However, the night quickly turned sour. In the first quarter, Bam Adebayo stepped awkwardly on a handoff to Norman Powell, injuring his left foot. He left for the locker room and did not return for the remainder of the game.
Injury Impact and Rotational Adjustments
With Adebayo sidelined, the Heat bench faced uncertainty. Coach Erik Spoelstra was already attempting to limit Kel'el Ware’s minutes against Nikola Jokic but ultimately had no better alternative. Ware showed moments of strong defensive positioning but struggled to control the boards consistently.
“Fourteen offensive rebounds for Denver compared to one for Miami in the first half pretty much tells the story.”
Once Ware exited, it was clear that Miami lacked available big men. Two-way player Vlad Goldin was with Sioux Falls, leaving Keshad Johnson to fill the backup center role.
Takeaway
- Miami’s rebounding issues were glaring against Denver’s dominant front line.
- The Heat continue to battle depth problems due to injuries.
- Jokic’s presence highlighted Miami’s lack of interior resistance without Adebayo.
Author’s summary: Miami’s road woes continued in Denver as injuries and rebounding struggles doomed their attempt to overcome Nikola Jokic and the Nuggets.