The Miami Heat look revitalized after defeating the Washington Wizards.

Miami Heat look revitalized after beating the Wizards.

The Miami Heat worried fans early in the season with their dismal play, but they gave them reason to be optimistic with a good victory over the Washington Wizards on Friday night.

The Heat struggled to get off to a good start in the 2023-24 NBA season. Miami has a 1-4 record through five games and looked nothing like the squad that won the Eastern Conference title last postseason. It was the team’s poorest start since the 2007-08 season (0-5). In comparison to other teams this season, it had the league’s second-worst record, trailing only the winless Grizzlies.

The offense struggled in the first five games, which was a huge concern. Although shooters were hitting shots, Miami was failing to capitalize on inside shots. At times, the offensive appeared inconsistent and disorderly; the team frequently struggled to keep the ball in play.

Another source of concern was Jimmy Butler’s appearance. Miami’s leading scorer, who averaged 23 points per game previous season, started the 2023-24 season with 16.5 points per game. Butler’s efficiency was low, and it appeared like he was on the slide. This is something the Heat cannot afford.

Fortunately for Miami, everything turned around against Washington on Friday night. This was the Heat’s first game in the in-season competition. It appeared to have come at the perfect time, since it appeared to have rekindled Miami’s competitive drive.

The Heat were led by Tyler Herro, who had 24 points, 11 rebounds, and nine assists. Butler got to the line early and finished with 20 points on 5 for 6 shooting from the line. The entire team made shots and shared the ball effectively.

The Heat still have some things to improve on. For example, the Heat allowed Washington to go on a fourth-quarter run by committing six turnovers. These late-game decisions must be changed if Miami wants to win against harder opponents.

The Washington Wizards are one of the poorest opponents the Miami Heat may face in the East, so their victory should come as no surprise. Still, it’s encouraging to watch Miami play as they often do.