In an exciting matchup on January 17, 2026, the Miami Heat faced the Oklahoma City Thunder at the Kaseya Center, showcasing their resilience even while dealing with injuries to key players. Notably, Norman Powell returned to the lineup, while Tyler Herro was sidelined, alongside Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Davion Mitchell, which underscored the Heat’s depth and adaptability.
The game began with Miami trailing 37-30 heading into the second quarter, but the Heat displayed a remarkable turnaround. Erik Spoelstra’s coaching philosophy of streamlined rotations under adversity became evident as the team found a rhythm. Myron Gardner made his presence felt immediately, contributing significantly to both the offense and defense. His ability to create defensive pressure coupled with a surprising offensive burst saw him score three consecutive three-pointers, illustrating his potential impact even when given limited court time.
Bam Adebayo continued to be a driving force for Miami, providing crucial points and defensive plays. The Heat’s improved performance during the second quarter can be attributed to effective switching on defense, limiting the Thunder’s second-chance opportunities, and finding shooting consistency, especially from newcomers like Simone Fontecchio. This period highlighted the Heat’s knack for bouncing back, showcasing their depth and teamwork.
Clutch moments defined the late stages of the game, with both teams exchanging leads. As the game progressed to the final minutes, Kasparas Jakucionis’s timely three-pointer tied the score and set the stage for an exhilarating finish. Pelle Larsson’s continued strong performance helped keep the Heat competitive, and Adebayo’s late-game shots proved essential in maintaining pressure on the Thunder. With under a minute remaining, a well-executed pick-and-roll between Powell and Adebayo led to a critical three-pointer from Andrew Wiggins, putting Miami ahead.
The Heat’s focus and grit in the final moments, coupled with solid defensive efforts, secured a hard-fought victory. This win not only demonstrates Miami’s competitive spirit but also points to their potential for success as they navigate a season marked by player absences. The performance of role players like Gardner could prove pivotal as the Heat strive for continued improvement and cohesion moving forward.