The Miami Heat are coming off a difficult NBA season, and despite their struggles, they remain determined to stay competitive. Their latest setback came in a 103-91 loss to the Boston Celtics, with underwhelming performances from Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo. In the aftermath, Adebayo acknowledged the challenges of leading the franchise following Jimmy Butler’s departure.
Speaking to The Miami Herald, Adebayo admitted that he and Herro are experiencing “growing pains” as they adjust to being the team’s primary leaders.
“It’s growing pains for us,” Adebayo said. “This is the first situation where it’s really just me and Tyler. Obviously, the addition of [Andrew Wiggins] helps, but we’re still trying to get Wiggs comfortable so he can be fully himself. Right now, we’re keeping it simple for him and just getting out of his way. But for me and Tyler, it’s about understanding how hard it is to win in this league. You can never take that for granted.”
With Butler gone, Adebayo and Herro have taken on the responsibility of being the team’s focal points. The acquisition of former Golden State Warriors champion Andrew Wiggins has provided a much-needed boost, as he finished the game against Boston with 23 points, four rebounds, and four steals. Additionally, the Heat are relying on key role players like Davion Mitchell and Kyle Anderson to help keep the team competitive.
Jimmy Butler #22 and Tyler Herro #14 of the Miami Heat react against the Dallas Mavericks during overtime at Kaseya Center.
Tyler Herro on Butler’s absence
One of Miami’s biggest issues this NBA season has been their inconsistency in closing games, particularly in the fourth quarter. Over their last six contests, they’ve struggled to maintain leads late, a glaring weakness that underscores their need for a proven clutch performer—something Butler consistently provided. Since trading Butler to the Golden State Warriors, the Heat have gone just 4-13.
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Herro acknowledged Butler’s ability to make game-changing plays in crucial moments. “I think Jimmy was really good at making the right play at the right time, whether it was for himself or a teammate,” Herro told The Miami Herald. “So that’s just part of mine and Bam’s process—continuing to get better.”
Despite Miami’s struggles, Herro has taken a major step forward this season, earning his first All-Star selection. However, he understands that turning things around now falls on him and Adebayo.
“I stay even-keeled,” Herro said. “I try not to get too high or too low for moments like this. But this has to bring the best out of me and Bam, specifically, as we try to lead this team and turn things around.”
