The Miami Heat were no match for the Charlotte Hornets in a lopsided 99-81 loss on Wednesday.
Charlotte led by 30 points during the fourth quarter before the reserves made the score look slightly better. The loss was one of the worst of the season for the Heat and gave them two straight losses. With the pair of defeats, Miami now has a 12-8 record this season.
Down by 20 at the half, Miami was forced to throw up more difficult shots in the third quarter to try and cut into the deficit. This only added to what was a poor shooting night for the team. The Heat shot 39% on their field goals and were 6-21 from the three-point land.
With the game out of reach, Miami's starters sat out the fourth quarter and ended up with very modest minutes played totals. Dwyane Wade led the starting group in minutes with his 25. In that time, Wade only had 11 points. Gerald Green matched Wade in points while playing one less minute.
Chris Bosh had a rough night with only seven points in 22 minutes of play. The Heat were a dismal -22 with Bosh on the court which was tied for the worst on the team with Goran Dragic. It was a rare off-night for Bosh who has otherwise been dependable.
The best line for Miami actually came from a bench player as Tyler Johnson posted 20 points in 29 minutes. Johnson led the team in minutes played, points and free throws. For good measure, Johnson also added a pair of assists and a steal.
Miami will try and turn its season back around on Friday in Indiana against the Pacers.
