Heat build biggest lead in more than a decade, roll past Cavaliers 121-84
In the third quarter of the game, there was a moment where Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo found themselves in a 2-on-0 break but appeared indecisive about who should score the easy basket. Such instances summed up the favorable momentum the Miami Heat enjoyed throughout the night.
Haywood Highsmith contributed 18 points, part of a remarkable 59-point performance by Miami’s bench players. This collective effort propelled the Heat to their most significant lead in over ten years, as they cruised to a commanding 121-84 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Sunday, breaking a three-game losing streak at home.
Highsmith acknowledged the deserving home fans, expressing satisfaction in providing them with an entertaining game. Adebayo added 15 points and 16 rebounds, while Butler chipped in with 15 points. The Heat’s dominance was evident as they led by a staggering 45 points in the final quarter, surpassing their largest lead of the season and marking their most substantial margin since a playoff game against Chicago in 2013.
Despite coming off a disappointing loss to New Orleans, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra emphasized the team’s resilience and commitment, highlighting their dedication even after challenging defeats.
Cleveland, missing key players like Donovan Mitchell, Max Strus, and Dean Wade, saw Evan Mobley return after a nine-game absence due to an ankle injury. However, they struggled to keep up with Miami’s pace, with only one player, Mobley, scoring in double figures, reminiscent of a similar occurrence back in 2008 when LeBron James was the sole double-digit scorer for the team.
Miami’s victory, with significant contributions from Terry Rozier and Thomas Bryant, showcased their dominance, marking their largest winning margin of the season and Cleveland’s most lopsided loss. The game saw Miami consistently extending their lead, with decisive plays including buzzer-beating layups from Rozier at the end of the first and second quarters, propelling them to an insurmountable advantage.
As the game progressed, Miami’s lead became insurmountable, prompting Cleveland to bench their starters early in the third quarter, signaling the Heat’s overwhelming control over the game.
