Trail Blazers Defeat Heat 116-107 Behind Ayton’s Dominant Performance

MIAMI — Deandre Ayton scored 24 points and grabbed 15 rebounds, leading the Portland Trail Blazers to a 116-107 victory over the Miami Heat on Tuesday night at the Kaseya Center. The Blazers extended their winning streak to two games, while the Heat dropped their second consecutive contest.

Ayton’s dominant performance was complemented by Jerami Grant, who added 22 points, and Scoot Henderson, who contributed 18 points and 16 assists. The Blazers built a commanding lead in the third quarter with a 21-8 run, putting them ahead 86-63. Miami attempted a late comeback, narrowing the gap to seven points in the final minutes, but Portland’s clutch free-throw shooting sealed the win.

Rookie Kel'el Ware shined for the Heat with 20 points and 16 rebounds, while Jaime Jaquez Jr. added 22 points. Miami played without leading scorer Jimmy Butler, who missed his first game of the season due to groin tightness. The Heat struggled from beyond the arc, missing 19 consecutive 3-point attempts after a strong start.

The Blazers’ efficient offense was a key factor, as they committed their first turnover late in the third quarter. Portland’s 6-of-12 shooting from 3-point range in the third period helped them build their largest lead of 27 points. “We stayed disciplined and executed our game plan,” said Blazers coach Chauncey Billups. “Deandre was a force inside, and our guards did a great job finding him.p>

Miami’s coach Erik Spoelstra acknowledged his team’s struggles. “We had some good looks, but the ball just didn’t go in,” he said. “We’ll regroup and get ready for the next one.”

The Trail Blazers will visit the Orlando Magic on Thursday, while the Heat travel to face the Milwaukee Bucks the same night.