Did Miami Heat's Bam Adebayo Avoid Accountability?

MIAMI, Fla. – Along with a winless (0-4) record, the Miami Heat haven't felt Bam Adebayo's impact; however, the three-time All-Star isn't fond of the early criticism.

"The media is going to be the media," he said following Monday's 113-109 loss to the Dallas Mavericks. "They're going to try to bury you when you're down, then it's quiet when you're up. You expect that from the media."

Other than a 20-point performance against the Charlotte Hornets, Adebayo's offensive production has been underwhelming. In two games (Detroit Pistons and Mavericks), he finished below double figures in scoring. As Giannis Antetokounmpo's new co-star, there's a greater expectation.

Even with similar play styles, Adebayo is supposed to complement the 31-year-old superstar. Instead, he's been part of the early disappointment. As one of the primary leaders, Adebayo's comments could be seen as a deflection.

Also, as captain, how is this setting an example for the rest of the locker room?

Star players will always face criticism and it's not something Adebayo hasn't experienced before in the league. 

While the media, either nationally or locally, can get out of hand at times, it hasn't been unfair in this situation. Nobody in the business is advocating for Adebayo to get traded or saying he's a lost cause. Rather, they are simply calling out the lack of production and winning impact on the court thus far.

Even when Adebayo isn't scoring, he can contribute in other ways, such as facilitating, rebounding, and defending. There haven't been any signs of that either at the start of the season. It's easier for a player of Adebayo's caliber to deflect to the media being the villain.

The 10-year league veteran has the Heat's full support. It's to the point where trade rumors are immediately shut down and max extensions are offered without hesitation.

Adebayo's three-year, $166.34 million contract officially kicks in this season. He starts off with a $49.49 million fully guaranteed salary. In a time in the league when finances are approached with extra precaution, especially because of the second apron penalties, the Heat make sure Adebayo is taken care of when extension-eligible.

Whenever a superstar of Antetokounmpo's caliber joins a new franchise, extra attention is going to be drawn, which can lead to heavier criticism. He and Adebayo are supposed to be one of the top duos in a heavily competitive Eastern Conference. However, they have yet to prove they can coexist on the court.

The Heat have an opportunity to prevent an 0-5 start and claim the first win of the season against the Atlanta Hawks on Wednesday night. Tip off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. E.T. and will be televised on WPLG Local 10.

More Miami Heat News:

- "Miami Heat Remain Winless, Despite Giannis Antetokounmpo Triple Double"

- "Should the Miami Heat Panic This Soon in the NBA Season?"

- "Miami Heat Better to Experience Growing Pains Sooner Than Later?"