Simone Fontecchio is quietly becoming one of Miami’s key X-factors off the bench. In the Heat’s 115–101 win over the New York Knicks, the Italian forward delivered 14 points in just 18 minutes, shooting 5-for-8 from the field and 3-for-5 from deep.

His instant impact – energy, movement, and composure – came exactly when the team needed a spark.

He has a very versatile offensive game. When you’re the first scoring option for your country, dropping 30 a night, you know how to get into rhythm fast. He knows how to shoot off the catch and how to create for himself. We want to give him as much freedom as possible to be the player he’s showing he can be

Erik Spoelstra

It’s the second time in a week that Spoelstra has singled out Fontecchio’s performance – after another 14-point outing against the Grizzlies – proof that the coaching staff trusts his offensive instincts.

The Heat, currently the fastest-paced team in the NBA, pushed the tempo relentlessly despite a slow start. Their transition game overwhelmed New York, piling up 31 fast-break points and constantly forcing defensive breakdowns.

Bam Adebayo led the way with 19 points and 13 rebounds, but emphasized that what matters most is the team’s identity, not the stat sheet:

We’re not satisfied. We want to keep this tempo all season long. When the playoffs come and everyone slows down, we want to keep running. It keeps everyone alive and involved.

Bam Adebayo, via ClutchPoints

Adebayo also summed up just how fluid Miami’s offense has become:

I don’t think we called a single set play tonight – and we still put up 115 points.

Bam Adebayo, via ClutchPoints

The new-look Heat are building around speed, spacing, and rhythm, with Fontecchio emerging as a perfect fit for that philosophy. Two convincing wins – a blowout over Memphis and this strong performance against New York – suggest that Miami may have found its formula: run hard, shoot freely, and have fun doing it.