Tyler Herro Shines in Return as Heat Defeat Mavericks

MIAMI — Tyler Herro made a triumphant return to the Miami Heat on Monday night, leading the team to a 106-102 victory against the Dallas Mavericks at Kaseya Center. Herro scored 24 points in his season debut after recovering from ankle surgery that sidelined him for nearly 10 weeks.

“It was a long nine, 10 weeks or so [that I was out], but it went by fast,” Herro said. “[The team has] been having a lot of fun, and just to be able to go out there and compete with them tonight was great.” Herro aimed for a late October return, and he was thrilled to finally rejoin his teammates on the court.

The Heat needed Herro’s scoring as they faced a Mavericks team that had played a league-high 15 clutch games this season. Despite trailing by as much as 13 points, the Mavericks fought back to tie the game in the fourth quarter, thanks in part to 27 points from forward Luka Doncic.

With just under a minute remaining, Herro made a decisive floater to put the Heat up 104-102. That came after a crucial steal by Heat center Bam Adebayo, who intercepted an inbounds pass with 48.2 seconds left. Adebayo later sealed the victory with two free throws.

“I happened to be in the right position, get to my spot and make a floater,” Herro said. “But Bam made a hell of a steal … without Bam, I don’t get to make that play.” The win marked Miami’s fifth consecutive triumph.

Coach Erik Spoelstra praised Herro’s return, stating, “It’s amazing that he can come back and have that kind of rhythm, and that’s only going to get better.” Miami’s new offensive system, which emphasizes quick decisions and minimal pick-and-rolls, was designed to maximize skill and versatility.

Adebayo noted the new system’s effectiveness, highlighting how it allows players to thrive off the catch. “It’s a fun offense to be part of. It’s not a lot of pick-and-rolls, but it’s sharing the game,” he said.

Herro’s late-game performance underscored his significance to the Heat, who aim to build momentum as the season progresses. As Spoelstra remarked, “He’s going to fit right in. He’s going to amplify everything we’re doing. I’m happy for him and it’s good that we’ll be able to build on this.”