Erik Spoelstra backs Tyler Herro's decision to take go-ahead shot vs Spurs
Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra defended Tyler Herro's game-winning attempt from distance. With a loss in the books for the Heat, Spoelstra also explained the intent behind the play and why it was a decision the team agreed upon.
The Heat haven't been at the top of their game this season. After ending last year's regular-season as the top team in the East, Miami find themselves far away from the top spot this time around. The 10th-ranked Miami Heat have had issues with winning games. This goes without question. However, a loss against the San Antonio Spurs certainly didn't help their situation in the slightest.
Playing the Spurs at home on the eve of Gregg Popovich's anniversary as head coach, the Heat failed to ruin Pop's celebration. With a 111-115 loss against the Spurs, Miami found themselves falling to 12-15 on the season.
Considering that the Miami Heat were coming off a win against the LA Clippers, they should have easily put away the Spurs. However, Miami's defense seemingly fell apart after the first-quarter. To add to this, Miami were brutally outrebounded by 46-32.
However, in light of these poor efforts, the Heat managed to stick close. With Jimmy Butler and Tyler Herro combining for 53 points, Miami still had a chance to win the game late in the fourth-quarter.
Down by two points, the Heat drew up a play that would have been a potential game-winner. As Butler and Herro were the obvious threats, Spoelstra made sure the play centered around them.
Coming out from the timeout, the Heat ran a play that saw Tyler Herro take a shot to win the game. A three-point heave from 29-feet unfortunately missed the mark and resulted in a Spurs rebound. With a last-ditch effort coming up short, the Heat faced a tough loss to San Antonio.
The Heat had two good looks to win the game but fall short against the Spurs 😳
https://t.co/z4iI1h67sO
Miami Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra mentioned that the team had faith in Tyler Herro shooting the final shot. When mentioning the intent behind their last play, Spoelstra said:
"It was a pick and roll between Tyler and Jimmy. It wasn't the cleanest, but it was the action that everyone felt most comfortable with."
Erik Spoelstra on the intention for the final play:
“It was a pick and roll between Tyler and Jimmy. It wasn’t the cleanest, but it was the action everyone felt most comfortable with.”
Considering that Jimmy Butler was on a bit of a roll, several would expect him to take the last shot. However, this also makes Butler a much better decoy in high pressure situations.
The play itself reflects Spoelstra's faith in Tyler Herro as a shot taker. As an extremely talented player with star potential, the Heat will hope to see him develop into a franchise cornerstone.
Tyler Herro is invaluable to the Miami Heat
The Miami Heat are one of the most tightly knit units in the league. With Jimmy Butler leading the way, the team has bought into his mentality, which also fits the image of Heat basketball. In this regard, certain players are right for the Heat culture, while others aren't. Tyler Herro happens to be one of the few that is and this makes him invaluable to Miami.
As a gifted shot creator and playmaker, Herro offers a lot of upside to Miami. Whether his role is of a starter or that off the bench, the youngster finds ways to contribute while putting his own flair on things.
Fans and analysts were aware of his value, but the Heat put a number to it when they signed him to a four-year deal this offseason. With Herro being essential to Miami's current schemes and future plans, the team will focus on his development as a star alongside Bam Adebayo.
However, given the nature of the team's performance, there may be some alterations to these plans as a lot of chatter paints a potential trade or rebuild.
Also Read: Charles Barkley asserts Miami Heat to reconstruct the roster after sluggish season start: “It might be time to break the team up and start over”