MIAMI _ The Heat wanted a better defensive effort, and that's exactly what it got to begin 2020.
After a poor defensive month in December, the Heat (25-9) started January with one of its best defensive performances of the season in an 84-76 win over the Raptors (23-12) on Thursday at AmericanAirlines Arena.
Using a 2-3 zone look for most of the night, Miami limited Toronto to 31.5% shooting from the field and 6-of-42 shooting on threes.
The Heat didn't turn in its most efficient offensive performance of the season either, shooting 40.7% from the field. Big man Bam Adebayo led Miami with a team-high 15 points and 14 rebounds.
It was a close game throughout, but the Heat was able to pull away with a strong fourth quarter. Miami outscored Toronto 21-16 in the final period to take control.
Center Serge Ibaka led the Raptors with 19 points and 10 rebounds.
The Raptors were without Marc Gasol (strained left hamstring), Pascal Siakam (strained groin), Norman Powell (left shoulder), Dewan Hernandez (sprained right ankle) and Matt Thomas (finger) Thursday. The Heat was without forward Justise Winslow (lower back bone bruise).
Miami is now 16-1 at home this season after finishing with a 19-22 record at AmericanAirlines Arena last season.
The Heat is right back at it Friday, closing the home-road back-to-back set with a matchup against the Magic in Orlando.
