The Miami Heat played their first home game of the season on Friday and lost to the Charlotte Hornets 97-91.
Miami rolled out the same exact starting lineup as it did in the first game of the season. The result was not identical however as the Heat fell to 1-1 on the young season.
The Heat took an 11-point lead into the locker room at the half and still led when the fourth quarter began. A late run by Charlotte however put the Heat away. The Hornets ended up with a ten-point advantage in the final quarter of play.
Hassan Whiteside led the team with his second double-double in as many chances this year. Whiteside had 20 points to go along 15 rebounds. The center also added two blocks in his 27 minutes on the court.
Dion Waiters continued to make a statement in his opportunity as a starting player. The veteran had 13 points, seven rebounds and three assists. Waiters is starting due to Josh Richardson's injury status, but he may keep a starting role with this level of play.
Goran Dragic did not tally the most in the points column with 14, but he contributed in other ways with nine assists. Dragic added four boards and the team was +4 with him on the court.
The Heat will stay home for a tough game against the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday 6:00 p.m.
