Recap: Lackluster play buries Heat in Utah

It's like the Heat were expecting a let down. After a thrilling win against the Clippers on Wednesday night, and spending a few nights there, the Heat got out hustled to start in Utah and it caught up to them.

The Heat were out-scored 32-20 in the first quarter, and although only trailing by 2 at halftime, Utah quickly took control of the game in the second half. The Heat were trailing most of the second half and let the game slip away with a poor offensive performance. Miami only scored 39 points in the second half and lost the game 94-89.

It was a season-low 13 points for LeBron James who shot only 4-13 and had 5 turnovers. "It's just one of those days. You're not going to play great every single night" said Spoelstra of LeBron. Miami had 5 players in double figures, but Dwyane Wade topped out at 19 points to lead the way. As a team, Miami shot a low 43% and were out rebounded by 9.

Utah hit some difficult and long shots to put it away. It just wasn't in the cards for the Heat tonight who fell to 4 games behind the East leading Indiana Pacers. Marvin Williams led Utah with 23 points and hit five 3-pointers. The Jazz made more shots from mid-range than they did the restricted area tonight if that tells you anything about how this game went.

Gordon Hayward had a near triple double with 9 points, 9 rebounds and 11 assists. This was a classic trap game for the Heat, and they didn't match Utah's energy for stretches of this game and it cost them. It's nights like these that will ultimately hurt Miami in it's quest for the top spot in the East. With games in Golden State, Phoenix and Oklahoma City still to come on this road swing, the Heat will need to play their best basketball.

But in this one, Utah earned their win with great shot making. It seems as though Spoelstra has elected to move away from Michael Beasley, though his offense could have helped tonight. Chris Bosh scored 12 points but shot only 3-12, also having a rough shooting night. "We didn't make shots all night, and that's what it came down to" said James.

The Heat 35-14, securely in 2nd place in the East, but distancing themselves from catching up to the Pacers. Their next game is Tuesday against the Phoenix Suns.