Lowry and Jovic got things started for the Heat, but the Raptors kept the pace keeping things close. That changed quickly, with Jovic exploding for seven points going 3/3 from the field and propelling Miami out to an early lead (he had 11 points in the first quarter).
The Heat was impressive early, looking patient on offense and not forcing shots. The Raptors are a strong defensive team, so this was big early on. The Heat also looked solid on defense, but Scottie Barnes and Fred VanVleet still had moments where they chipped away at the lead. Gabe Vincent, Caleb Martin, and the reserves worked to keep Miami ahead as the first quarter came to a close but the Raps’ push kept things a little too close for comfort.