The Miami Heat see flashes of potential from their investment in sophomore forward Keshad Johnson.
The Miami Heat continue to roll, extending their winning streak to three after a blowout victory over the Chicago Bulls, with a final score of 143-107.
It's worth noting that they were without Andrew Wiggins, who did not travel with the team due to a left hip flexor strain; this was his first game sidelined because of injury. Also, Tyler Herro (left ankle surgery) and Nikola Jovic (right hip impingement) were out and didn't travel.
It would take a collective effort to make up for their absences, and Keshad Johnson answered the call. The second-year forward hasn't been a consistent rotation player. However, in most of the minutes he's logged, the 24-year-old was guarding centers, which Erik Spoelstra called "not fair."
"This is the first game I've played him at the four," he said. "The other games I've played him at the five, the first game was against [Nikola] Jokic, that's not even fair. He stayed diligent, constantly being mentored by Malik [Allen, assistant coach], U.D. [Udonis Haslem], and Bam [Adebayo]. Everybody roots for him because he's so pure, really works at it. He stays ready so he doesn't have to get ready. He finally got an opportunity where it was much more in his wheelhouse and made a big impact."
In 29 minutes of action against the Bulls, Johnson finished with 14 points, 12 rebounds, two blocks, an assist, and a steal. This is his first double-double of his professional career.
The undrafted prospect got things going with a left-wing three-pointer during the Heat's 18-3 run in the first quarter. One of his blocks came in the final seconds of the second quarter against Bulls point guard Josh Giddey.
Johnson did an excellent job in getting to the free-throw line as well, making six out of six attempts. That was an area where there were signs of struggles during the preseason. Despite shooting inefficiently in last night's game, 30 percent from the field, Johnson stayed aggressive, which was all that was needed from him to impact winning.
"I pray a lot, first and foremost, thanks to my Lord and Savior," he said postgame. "Also, I got to put in my work too, just staying ready. Opportunity came tonight, for the rest of the season, I just got to stay ready. We had guys down, it's just next man up mentality. I'm going to still be ready to do whatever the team needs me to do. Tonight, it was rebounding. I didn't make as many shots as I wanted to, but my energy was there, and that's the only thing I can control."
This game against the Bulls wasn't just another regular-season matchup, but an In-Season Tournament Cup matchup. The Heat advance to 2-1 within group East C, only behind the Milwaukee Bucks, who are 2-0.
Both sides will meet next Wednesday for another In-Season Tournament matchup. The Bucks will be without superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, who sustained a low-grade left groin strain, and will be sidelined for a couple of weeks.
The Heat continue to excel in the undrafted development department, with Johnson being the latest example, who has only more room to grow.
More Miami Heat News:
- "Heat's Tyler Herro Eyeing Potential Return Date"
- "Heat Considering Massive Upgrades"