In a heated matchup, the Miami Heat edged past the Houston Rockets with a final score of 104-100, bolstered by Tyler Herro's impressive 27-point performance. The game took a dramatic turn in the final minute when a scuffle broke out, resulting in the ejection of six individuals, including Herro and Rockets' Amen Thompson. The altercation was sparked by Thompson throwing Herro to the ground, leading to a chaotic scene as players and coaches from both teams rushed onto the court.
Despite missing star player Jimmy Butler for the fifth consecutive game, the Heat managed to secure the win. Nikola Jovic stepped up with a solid contribution of 18 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. The Rockets had initially led the game 92-85 following a layup from Fred VanVleet, but they faltered down the stretch, missing 11 consecutive shots that allowed Miami to claw back into the game.
Key moments included Jovic's crucial three-pointer with 47 seconds remaining, which gave the Heat a 98-94 lead. The Rockets struggled offensively in the fourth quarter, shooting a mere 25% from the field, which ultimately cost them the game. Dillon Brooks led Houston with 22 points, returning from a recent injury, but it wasn't enough to overcome Miami's resilience.
With this win, the Heat look to build momentum as they prepare to face the New Orleans Pelicans, while the Rockets will aim to bounce back against the Dallas Mavericks in their next outing.