The encore could be a pretty good one between the Charlotte Hornets and Miami Heat.
The teams will meet Saturday for the second time in three nights on the same court at Miami.
The Hornets have lost seven games in a row, with Thursday night’s 117-112 overtime outcome among the most difficult to digest.
Charlotte battled back from a 12-point fourth-quarter deficit, but the Heat recovered as Jimmy Butler racked up 35 points, including their last seven in regulation. Miami has won five games this season, with four of them ending with margins of seven points or less.
Butler was aggressive enough to land at the free-throw line for 15 attempts, making 13.
After the Heat’s lead disappeared, Miami was forced to execute while facing a deficit. Butler had help, and it proved to be vital.
Spoelstra said traits of Clifford-coached teams mean there are bound to be close games and certain challenges. This comes even with the Hornets playing minus key players because of injuries.
The Hornets, in the middle game of a three-game swing in Florida, haven’t been clicking down the stretch in many games. So outscoring the Heat 31-19 in the fourth quarter might be a huge step despite the ultimate defeat.
Yet turnovers were devastating for the Hornets. Miami feasts on defensive opportunities and Charlotte’s adjustments are expected as the teams meet again in quick order.
It could be just the launching point for what the Heat can do on defense.
With all the backcourt injuries for the Hornets, Kelly Oubre Jr. has continued to be productive in a heightened role. His 29 points and seven 3-point baskets were season highs Thursday night.
