Bam Adebayo says he is being made the scapegoat for the Miami Heat's 0-4 start, the worst opening in nearly two decades. The All-Star center averaged just 11.8 points and 7.3 rebounds on 40% shooting, including 16.7% from three-point range, through the first four games. Adebayo stressed that it is early in the season and expressed confidence the team will turn things around.
He attributed his struggles partly to increased three-point attempts rather than Giannis Antetokounmpo's presence. Coach Erik Spoelstra echoed Adebayo's sentiment, saying the three-time All-Star simply needs to see the ball go in. The Heat have struggled to perform cohesively, with Antetokounmpo being the only starter with a positive true net rating in three of their losses.
Guard Davion Mitchell believes the Adebayo-Antetokounmpo partnership will eventually work but noted Adebayo needs to be more aggressive offensively. The team faces upcoming games against the Hawks and Pacers before a five-game West Coast trip.
Source: ESPN NBA · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing