3 reasons the Heat’s bubble run wasn’t sustainable in 2021

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - MAY 02: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat brings the ball up court against the Charlotte Hornets during their game at Spectrum Center on May 02, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images)
CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - MAY 02: Jimmy Butler #22 of the Miami Heat brings the ball up court against the Charlotte Hornets during their game at Spectrum Center on May 02, 2021 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jacob Kupferman/Getty Images) /
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Miami Heat, Milwaukee Bucks
(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

1. These Bucks are just too good

As we said earlier, the bubble was a weird experience for every team. A team like the Bucks also had society as a whole on their minds during what was a tense time in the nation for everyone, especially with the shooting of Jacob Blake.

The Heat were able to win last year’s series in five games on their run to the Finals. But then this season began, and teams were back in their home arenas. Giannis Antetokounmpo continued to get better, as did Khris Middleton.

The real change came with the additions of Jrue Holiday, P.J. Tucker and Bobby Portis. Everyone knew the Bucks were great with Antetokounmpo and Middleton. But now the team is stacked with talent at every position. Bryn Forbes is another addition of note, as he averaged 10 points per game during the regular season.

The Milwaukee front office went to work and convinced Antetokounmpo to sign a new max deal to stay in town. That decision will only help the team add more talent in the future as players seek a title.

Miami is just not at that level in 2021 and fans will be wondering if Butler can lead the team to greatness again after what has turned out to be an awful showing in the first round. After a tight Game 1, the Heat can’t even seem to score 100 points. Getting some proper rest this offseason should help provide a reset heading into next season.

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