Minnesota Cries Wolf in Miami

By: Matt Blue

The great Pat Riley used to say “no rebounds, no rings.” This is obviously one of the truest statements ever made in the history of basketball. Except on this very night when the HEAT was manhandled on the boards 52-24 but still ended up coming away with the victory at home 103- 92. The HEAT did a nice job from three point land converting 13-25 from downtown.

LeBron finished with 22 points, 7 rebounds and 11 assists. Wade led the team in scoring with 24 points to go along with 4 assists and three rebounds. Wade also made a highlight reel block on Kevin Love’s dunk attempt in the first half. D-Wade is one of the better shot blocking guards in the league and he reminded everyone of that fact in this one.

Shockingly, Kevin Love had as many rebounds in 7 minutes as any HEAT player did throughout the 48 minute game. That is a true testament to just how good Love is. However, the HEAT will need to continue to do a better job collectively when it comes to rebounding and boxing out its opponents.

The player who really caught the HEAT fan’s eye tonight was Norris Cole. He proved exactly why he deserves to get more and more minutes for Miami. He did a very good job guarding J.J. Barea and keeping him out of the paint. His on the ball defense was terrific. He really gave Miami a tremendous spark off the bench offensively and defensively.

The HEAT’s perimeter play and execution just proved to be way too much for Minnesota. The HEAT was unstoppable in transition just like they always are. The T-Wolves were able to hang with the HEAT until Miami started to create turnovers and get out on the break. The T Wolves had a glaring advantage inside against the HEAT and they definitely utilized this strength to the best of their ability. The HEAT ultimately overwhelmed the Wolves with their aggressive and relentless play. As the season moves on the HEAT will look to win games more consistently.

The HEAT did a good job not taking it’s opponent tonight too lightly. If the HEAT are able to maintain their professionalism and motivation on a nightly basis, they will have a very successful season when it’s all said and done.

MVP: Norris Cole

I thought Cole’s efforts tonight changed the entire course of the game. His defense as stated above was exceptional and he did a good job running the offense. He is going to continue to get better and better as he continues to gain more and more confidence.

Tough Night: HEAT on the Glass

Miami will need to make more of a commitment to rebounding the basketball moving forward.

Lights Out: Mario Chalmers

Chalmers had a smooth stroke shooting 4/6 from three point land. The HEAT always seem to get him the ball in his sweet spots.

Next Up:

HEAT @ Mavs Thursday night 9:30 on TNT.