Sports · Basketball · 8 hrs ago
Spoelstra says Miami’s defense is a bigger concern than its offense
Heat coach Erik Spoelstra responded to Doc Rivers’ comments about coaching Giannis Antetokounmpo, saying, “This is our business now.”
Rivers had said on a podcast that Antetokounmpo’s preferred style made the Bucks’ offense difficult to get right.
Miami had started the season 3–6 and ranked 27th in defensive rating.
Opponents were regularly hurting the Heat from beyond the three-point line, and Spoelstra said the team needed more urgency and toughness.
Spoelstra said Miami’s defense was the bigger problem, even though he had seen some progress.
He said the team’s offensive adjustment was further along, as it worked to connect around a player who draws heavy attention.
Miami’s games were being decided by its defense, Spoelstra said; he did not outline any specific next steps.
Erik Spoelstra said Miami’s defense is a bigger concern than its offense after the Heat started the season 3–6.
Miami entered Saturday ranked 27th in defensive rating.
Spoelstra said the team’s offensive adjustment was further along than its defensive work.
He said Miami’s games were being decided by its defense as the team became more connected offensively.
Opponents had regularly hurt the Heat from beyond the three-point arc.
- Who
- Erik Spoelstra, coach of the Miami Heat.
- What
- He said Miami’s defense was a bigger concern than its offense.
- When
- After the Heat’s 3–6 start; he spoke after Saturday’s practice.
- Where
- Not stated.
- Why
- Miami’s games were being won or lost defensively, and Spoelstra said the team’s defensive progress was not happening fast enough.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Spoelstra identified Miami’s defense as the bigger concern than its offense.
Miami entered the day ranked 27th in defensive rating.
Spoelstra discussed the team’s defensive progress and its offensive adjustment.
- Heat record
- 3–6
- Defensive rating
- 27th entering Saturday
- Coach
- Erik Spoelstra
- Defensive concern
- Opponents regularly hurt Miami from beyond the arc
What people are saying
Our games are being won or lost defensively first, while we’re getting more connected offensively.
not happening fast enough, and it’s not happening with enough collective urgency and toughness.