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Recap: Heat on Bobcats in Miami
By David Walters
bobcats.com
January 1, 2012
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DJ White (21 points) and Kemba Walker (17 points) both recorded career-high scoring nights on New Year’s Day in Miami, but it wasn't enough as the Charlotte Bobcats fell behind early and never recovered in a 129-90 loss at American Airlines Arena.
Miami outscored Charlotte, 33-15, in the first quarter as the Bobcats connected on just 17.4 percent (4 of 23) of their shots from the field to the Heat’s 50.0 percent (12 of 24). Miami finished the night shooting 60.0 percent (48 of 80) from the field and 63.6 percent (7 of 11) from 3-point range, while the Bobcats shot 38.0 percent (35 of 92) and 33.3 percent (6 of 18), respectively.
"When you don't play good offensively, then your defense goes down," said Head Coach Paul Silas. "We gave too many run-outs and layups. We'll play hard against anybody. We came out and had some open looks. If those shots go in, then I think it's a whole different ballgame."
White led the Bobcats, connecting on 10-of-12 shots including a buzzer-beating 3-pointer at the end of the third quarter, and Derrick Brown scored 14 points and grabbed a team-high seven rebounds off the bench for the Bobcats.
"I like the way that DJ is playing," said Silas said about White. "I like his hustle, I think he's shooting the ball extremely well and he's learning."
The Bobcats rookies got some extended minutes led by Walker, who also dished out four assists. Bismack Biyombo had his best game as a pro with six points, six rebounds and two blocks off the bench.
"DJ White came in and he did a great job tonight making shots," said Bobcats forward Corey Maggette. "Kemba (Walker) came in and did a great job. The way Bismack (Biyombo) rebounded and made plays (was positive). There were positive parts from the aspect of our young guys. Ultimately, we have to make shots and be confident in ourselves. I put the first blame on myself, because as a veteran, you are supposed to try to get something going. We just have to regroup."
Chris Bosh had another strong game against the Bobcats with 24 points and 10 rebounds while Dwyane Wade chipped in 22 points and six assists. LeBron James, Mario Chalmers and rookie Norris Cole scored 16 points apiece for the Heat.
Game Notes: Guard Cory Higgins saw his first action of the season for the Bobcats and had five points and two rebounds… Tyrus Thomas was listed as active but missed his fourth-straight game while recovering from a mild left ankle sprain; Silas says he "hopes" to have him back next week… Reggie Williams and Eddie Najera were also listed on the injury report as they recover from their respective knee surgeries.
The Bobcats will play against Kyrie Irving and the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday at 7 p.m. at Quicken Loans Arena in the second game of a three-game road trip. Catch all the action on SportSouth, listen to us on WFNZ and join the live chat on bobcats.com.
