Heat vs. Cavaliers Takeaways: Jimmy Butler, Terry Rozier Haul Miami To Victory

A look at five of the biggest takeaways from the Miami Heat's victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers

Author:
Anthony Pasciolla
Mar 20, 2024 9:30 PM EDT

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Miami Heat

The Miami Heat found a rewarding victory on the road against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday, 107-104.

Here's a look at five major takeaways:

1. Jimmy Butler's electric performance hauled the Heat to a win.

The 34-year-old forward knew the level he must perform at with his superstar partner sidelined. 'Playoff Jimmy' seemingly arrived early this season, as Butler recorded 30 points, five assists, and four steals on 57.9 percent shooting and 2 of 4 shooting from the arc. This standard is required by Butler if the Heat wish to make a playoff run similar to last season's.

2. Terry Rozier's monster final quarter put the game away.

Highlighted by a four-point play and a step-back three-pointer, Rozier silenced the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse stadium. Rozier's adjustments to his new team are coming at the perfect time, as the Heat are battling to avoid the Play-In Tournament. He tallied 24 points, three rebounds, and two assists on 8 of 16 shooting. 11 of his points came in the fourth quarter on 100 percent shooting.

3. Jarrett Allen dominated in the paint without Adebayo on the floor.

Adebayo was ruled out a few hours prior to tipoff, paving the way for Allen to catch fire. He dominated for the Cavaliers, recording 25 points and 20 rebounds on 10 of 13 shooting. If Adebayo was healthy, this game could have seen a much larger margin of victory for the Heat.

4. Nikola Jovic thrived in his return from injury.

After missing multiple games, the Serbian forward made a statement in his return. Jovic concluded the night with 14 points and six rebounds on 41.7 percent shooting. Not to mention, his impact on the defensive end is improving rapidly. Despite struggling to remain prominent in the rotation, Jovic puts forth his best effort each night.

5. Darius Garland and Caris LeVert are holding the Cavs' backcourt to a high standard without Donovan Mitchell in the lineup.

Garland and LeVert are proving themselves as a strong tandem, with their superstar teammate sidelined with a nose injury. Mitchell is viewed as the Cavaliers' leader, but Garland and LeVert had no problem filling up the stat sheet. The duo combined for 36 points and 21 assists on 11 of 27 shooting.