Bam Adebayo is 1B, to Jimmy Butler‘s 1A. Let there be no doubt about it. Many fans are disappointed with Bam’s scoring to start the season. It is a, “you’re the superstar, be super,” feeling from fans. But, Bam has a lot of responsibility to anchor the team’s defensive game plan. As Pat Riley has said, for a Heat player to be a leader on the team, they need to perform on offense and defense.
Jimmy Butler “put over” Tyler Herro
Tyler Herro has been unbelievable this season with his scoring. In Monday’s post-game press conference, Jimmy commented on Tyler. He said the obvious–he’s a prolific scorer. Then he added that he has shown improvement on the defensive end (by wanting to defend the opposition’s best player.) Tyler needed to be “put over” by Jimmy and recognized.
Look at this article here from the New York Times on Herro’s contribution this season. The Heat’s defensive rating when he plays is 117, when he’s on the bench, 97.9. Bottom line is: Tyler Herro is really, really trying to be a defender. Look at my article here on our site on his offensive play. The Heat should look to trade him.
Bam Adebayo anchors the team
The Heat wouldn’t be an elite defensive team without Bam Adebayo. Look at an analysis below from the HoopsWithNick Youtube. Bam’s athletic abilities and in-game recognition allow other players to produce. The key stat, shown here on NBA.com, is preventing rim attempts. Fewer rim attempts, fewer corner three point attempts tied with Rudy Gobert for most in the league. Bam is 6’9″ and Gobert is 6’11”.
Bam could and should play power forward and be a primary scorer on a team. He would be among the league leaders in field goal attempts, makes, rebounds and be a perennial All-Star. As per the HoopsWithNick youtube video, I agree that an elite point guard would help him a lot.
Bam needs help
Bam needs help or needs to rise above the constant responsibilities on offense and defense. Heat draft pick Kel’el Ware could be that player. Ware is a better version of Hassan Whiteside. He has a motor and could be a good sidekick, allowing Bam to focus more on scoring. The guy though, in this Q&A here on NBA.com gives fans his preference.
Every rep matters. Being a technician on defense. Being in the right spot. Talking, watching film, learning guys’ tendencies — It matters. When you get to the playoffs, you understand that the game slows up and goes possession by possession.
Bam answering a question on how he came to value defense, NBA.com
