Rozier is critical of himself during a slump, stating, “I’m struggling to make jump shots.” Additionally, there is upbeat injury news for the Heat.
Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier bluntly admitted his offensive struggles since joining the team after being traded, stating, “I can’t hit a jump shot,” following the team’s recent loss to the Los Angeles Clippers. Rozier, 29, has only made a few jump shots since his transfer to the Heat on Jan. 23, with a shooting percentage of 25.4% on jumpers in his initial seven games with Miami compared to 41.8% in 30 games with the Charlotte Hornets before the trade. Despite his personal challenges, Rozier emphasized his focus on team success and the need to keep working hard to improve his performance.
In his first seven games with the Heat, Rozier has averaged 11.7 points per game while shooting 32.9% from the field and 21.9% from three-point range. Before joining Miami, he averaged 23.2 points per game, shooting 45.9% from the field and 35.8% from three-point range with the Hornets. Rozier acknowledged the importance of persistence and shooting his way out of the slump.
While struggling to find his shooting touch, Rozier aims to contribute in other areas, notably with 38 assists and minimal turnovers in his initial games with the Heat. However, Miami has faced challenges with Rozier on the court, being outscored by 14 points per 100 possessions since the trade, partly due to team-wide struggles and Rozier adapting to a new role.
Heat guard Josh Richardson acknowledged the pressure Rozier faces transitioning to a contending team mid-season but praised his effort and adaptability. Miami acquired Rozier primarily for his scoring ability, aiming to bolster the team’s offense, which currently ranks among the lowest-scoring in the NBA. Coach Erik Spoelstra emphasized the importance of Rozier’s aggression and scoring prowess for the team’s success.
Despite offensive struggles, the Heat has shown improvement defensively in recent games, posting the NBA’s third-best defensive rating over the last three games. Center Bam Adebayo attributed the improvement to enhanced communication and defensive strategy adjustments.
Regarding injuries, Duncan Robinson is questionable for the upcoming game against the Orlando Magic after being in the NBA’s concussion protocol, while Tyler Herro is probable after missing the previous game due to a migraine. RJ Hampton and Dru Smith are ruled out for the game, while the Magic is expected to have its regular rotation available.
