Overview
- Ware played 11 minutes, 30 seconds in the 130-120 defeat in Los Angeles, sitting most of the first half and not reappearing until late in the third quarter.
- Erik Spoelstra attributed the reduced role to early struggles defending pick-and-roll actions against Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, though he noted a stronger third-quarter stint.
- Through Monday’s matchup on the schedule, Miami has been outscored by 10 points per 100 possessions with Ware on the floor, the worst net rating among rotation players, per the Miami Herald.
- Spoelstra criticized the team’s overall defense in the loss as lacking effort and discipline, and the Heat dropped to 0-2 on their current road trip.
- Norman Powell missed a third straight game with a right groin strain after being listed as questionable before tipoff.