Aside from the role players' steady performances, Herro, who had struggled in the previous game, quickly found his form again. In tonight's showdown, he efficiently put up 15 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists, filling the last gap in the team's scoring.
With everyone playing well, the Heat kept a firm grip on the pace of the game.
Then, in the fourth quarter, when they faced the fierce comeback led by Chen Xi, they stayed composed with the ball, played steady team offense, and used tactical fouls in the final moments to force a free-throw battle. They successfully held onto their lead and ran out the clock.
In the end, Chen Xi's deep three from the backcourt once again missed the rim, and the Heat narrowly escaped with a win in this crucial matchup.
After the game, Chen, whose magic had run out, could only accept the reality that he had lost despite putting up 46 points, 7 rebounds, and 7 assists.
There was no helping it. The Heat really were strong this year.
Their roster depth was simply ridiculous.
For all 48 minutes, they covered the floor with offense from every angle. The Knicks, whose bench was already thin, had no answer.
After the game, Chen Xi went through the usual round of interviews with reporters.
"Chris, what's your take on tonight's loss?"
"It's nothing out of the ordinary. We lost, and our opponents played better tonight. We didn't lose unfairly.
"Of course, we'll keep working hard, look for our own problems, and correct them. Then we'll do our best to get the win back in the next game!"
"Tonight, the Knicks shot just 31.7 percent from three as a team, excluding you, while Miami shot 39.6 percent. What are your thoughts on those numbers?"
"They're a great