Welcome back!

The ongoing saga between the NBAPA and the owner has been resolved. An off season filled with melodrama and a clashing of wills has given way to an understanding. Now the fans can riddle opposing teams fans with jokes (bad jokes at that) and trash talk. Players can return to their cutting edge training facilities, catered lunches,  droves of reporters, and play the game we all love. The true fan has sat and watched with disdain as the wealthy bicker with the rich for scraps from the table of abundance. Such is life.

Owners please, please let them play in your tax payer bought arenas. It seems odd to me, that in the United States, a proud capitalist nation, that billionaires have the right to use tax payer monies to house their games. Or that a billionaire can hold a city hostage for an arena he doesn't want to pay for alone. I understand the commerce and tax dollars the team brings to the city and that the owners are huge tax contributors, but  when is enough, enough? You were a capitalist when you made your billions to buy the team, what happened after that? To cap this all off, smaller market team owners want a share of the profit! What? Are the successfully built teams to share their success with failing organizations? Only the strong survive huh? Unless you bought into sports teams, banks, insurances agencies, and my favorite the "auto industry". It all seems a tad socialist in my book. 

Players, players, playas...your mere cogs in the NBA machine. Though many of you are fine, up-standing members of society, some of you are difficult to comprehend. Though mostly college educated, there are a growing number barely literate millionaires among you. I wont point them out, but they know who they are, or do they? Ignorance is bliss they say. Wake up, your living the dream, make a young boys day and be a role model. We don't care what shoe your selling or what brand you building, we wanna see you play ball! I don't care if you got married, traveled to communist China, or crashed your Lambo into a tree, we wanna see you ball! Get over yourselves and do what God put you on Earth to do.

Fans, as this new season embarks, don't be a doubter. If your team stumbles, take it like the champ you could be. I can rib with the best of them and be out right nasty, but no one will listen if I am. The poop that I hear from other fan bases is utter drivel. The same bad jokes over and over, ugh! Get some new material or you'll wind up like that Andrew Dice Clay guy, forgotten. Play nice fans, and if the Heat smack your team down, don't hate, appreciate. If the Heat go down in battle, I will be the first to recognize our counterparts, its called being a sportsman.

The Heat have a ton of work to do. The signing of a cheap big man is a must, preferably a defender without hands of stone. The Heatles really don't need a point guard with so many ball handlers, Rio and Cole can do the job, just minus the turnovers. Miller and Haslem are friends from college. Wade and Lebron are besties. Don't they all deserve another chance to gel and make a run at a ship as pals? Sure they do, in a season riddled with injury and disappointment this team went to the FINALS (in caps, am I too loud?) people. We only got past the Bulls because of Haslem coming back early or they would've lost no matter how many 3's Rose would've missed. Mr. Riley made it clear when they arrived, its a two year plan, I believe in Mr. Riley. Adding some veterans will help these young guys settle down and get to business though, a Shane Battier, Grant Hill or Coron Butler will settle the locker room with their veteran spirit. Christmas day will be exactly what the Heat need, Dallas hanging their banner will be motivation for the rest of the season. Nothing but net!  

Miami Looks To Rebound

Lebron must not hit the hole, he has to slam it!

The Heat put themselves in a very precarious position by giving up a home game to the Dallas Mavericks. Being up by 15 points with 7 minutes left on the clock, the Heat allowed the Mavs to get back into the game and eventually lose by two. I am still in shock and found the loss left a sour taste in my mouth, but more importantly did it leave a mark on the Heat? I expected Miami to make history, but not like this. 

The Heat can rebound from this and that's where it starts, on the glass. Miami lost the instincts that got them through the Chicago series, like Riles say "no rebounds, no rings". Miami must play out of their minds now, especially after losing their collective minds for 7 minutes in game 2. The attacking style that got Miami to this point is their bread and butter, Miami has two of the best rim attackers, use them. Role players, Mario Chalmers and Mike Bibby, these two came through last game and Miami spoiled their opportunity. The difference in game 1 from game 2 was effort, Miami simply gave in to the energy from the crowd in game 2, they cannot afford to pull off the gas. 

Dwayne Wade and Lebron James are as important to a victory as Chris Bosh is. Bosh did not have a good game in game 2, his turnovers, missed shots at the rim (24%), and poor shooting buried Miami. Bosh needs a double double in game 3 like James needs to attack the paint and kick. James must head to the low post in crunch time and distribute the ball from there. Wade is and will always be a slasher, his three point heroics made him a jump shooter instead, not his game. Miami needs Wade to facilitate, drive, and defend, not shoot jumpers. 

Miami learned a valuable lesson in game 2 and lessons aren't cheap. Instead of going to Dallas with the series in a strangle hold, Miami goes to Dallas on the ropes. How they rebound from this will influence the rest of this series, they have no more phone a friends left, no more 50/50's, this is literally do or die. Treat them all like game 7's, they say, well Miami had a flashback to the regular season and can't afford to lose game 3. If the Heat play their A game, no one can beat them but themselves, tonight is a must A game and I for one expect to see it on the court for 48 minutes without mercy.

Nothing but Net.........................

The Heat is Rising!

The Heatles have been an amazing team to watch this season and seeing them evolve has been like watching a Caterpillar turn into a Blue Morpho butterfly. The level of basketball that the Heat are displaying on both sides of the ball can only get better with time. The Dallas Mavericks played well and were forced to succumb to Miami and their defensive will. If winning game one means that 73% of the time the winner goes on to win the championship, then Miami is one game closer to locking down its second ring.

Wade found his way to the rim

Last night the crowd at the triple A was treated to a great display of defense, Miami jumped out and made plays when they needed to. Lead by Wade and James, Miami' defense found a way to slow Dirk, a great offense, and the great Dallas bench. Haslem and Anthony limited Dirk almost on every possession. Wade and Chalmers played the Barea and Kidd tandem as well as they can be played. Kidd found open passes, but also made several bad one because of the defense. Anthony' blocks on Chandler and Marion set the tone for this defense in the first quarter as the two teams felt each other out.

Dallas will improve and make adjustments and this series is far from over. Carlisle is a wise coach and Kidd is a general on the court, I expect more offense from both teams in game two. The fact that Miami held Dirk to such a poor shooting percentage and harassed him the entire game with hard double teams cost Miami some open three pointers, but didn't let the big guy get into his rhythm. No sweet spots, and only a few turn around's was a good sign for the defense versus Dirk. I would take my chances with Peja and Kidd shooting threes over Dirk getting comfortable or in a groove.

Mario Chalmers has finally put together a game and he chose to do it in the finals. Rio has been the missing piece for this offense. His lane penetrations, and his outside shooting are desperately needed to spread the floor and get open looks for Miller and even Lebron. If "Lucky Chalms" can keep Barea and Kidd moving on defense and hit the three's when open or drive the lane when closed out, he can effect the game more. Miami only needs Chalmers to take care of the ball and make good decisions.

Miami demonstrated that a great defense is the best answer for a great offense. The emergence of Chris Bosh on both sides of the ball have made the Heat more versatile than ever, he has been here most of the season, but he has really shown up in the playoffs. Miami heads into game two with confidence against a slower team and a zone defense that allows Miami to hit the boards, and we all know no boards, no rings. 

Dallas will be more aggressive on the boards and try to get inside more with Chandler and Haywood. As long as Dirk is below 40 points, Miami has a good chance of taking game two. The Dallas bench was quiet, but wont be for long, they will score. Miami has to limit their scoring by making Barea a passer and not allow him into the lane off the hard show off the pick and roll. 

Miami can be more aggressive also, Bosh didn't put it on the floor enough and his missed jumpers helped keep Chandler from falling for the up-fake. Bibby and Anthony have to be aggressive offensively, the defensive help will come off their men and they must make them pay with jumpers and/or going to the rim. Miami leaked points at the free throw line again, it didn't cost them this game, but in closer games, it could. Mike Miller' injury while boxing out a 7 footer down low was unfortunate, but Miller made the play and contributed when called upon, he confirmed today that he will play in game 2.

Miami should know that Dallas will be looking to steal game two. After looking over the film, Carlisle should find ways to put his shooters in better spots and his big's in position to rebound. Miami cannot underestimate a good shooting team like the Mavericks and keep the intensity level high on defense. Miami should hold serve and head to Dallas with confidence that they can steal one of three games. Nothing but net...

The Heat Look To Break The Mavericks!

Bus driver Bosh, taking them to school!

Well the stage is set, your Miami Heat will face the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA Finals starting on Tuesday at American Airlines Arena. Miami defeated the Bulls in dramatic fashion coming back from down 11 points in Chicago with 3 minutes left in the fourth quarter. Miami found yet another way to win in Chicago the best home team in the regular season. The Heatles now face the Western Conference finals champions Dallas Mavericks and Miami remembers the Mavs from the 2006 Finals that eventually crowned Miami NBA Champions.


After taking down the Bulls in impressive fashion the Heat focus their attention on the Mavericks. The Mavs have beaten the Heat 14 straight times since the 2006 Finals in the regular season and have a great team lead by Dirk Nowitski. The Mavericks beat the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference finals. The Mavs also beat the World Champion Los Angeles Lakers in an unforeseen sweep, they also beat the Trailblazers in the first round. 


The Mavs bring a great offense into this series, and their three point shooters lead the playoffs in attempts. They are a big front court with 3 7 footers in Chandler, Haywood, and of course Dirk Nowitski. They have an excellent guard trio in Terry, Kidd, and Barea that can all shoot for three and put the ball on the floor. Barea especially can be a problem for Miami as small quick point guards due pester the Heat and his ability to get to the rim will help the Mavs on occasion. Dirk is the star and poses Miami with its toughest task in the playoffs so far, his jump shooting and up fake are great, his post up has gotten way better and his free throw percentage is very good. Dirk will face four Heat defenders in Haslem, Bosh, Anthony, and in the final minutes James.


Miami can taste the Larry O'Brien trophy, after such a long and self imposed pressure filled season, the Heat look to cap it off with another Championship. Despite beating the best home team in the regular season and the number one defense in the league, Miami has one more road block to get by, the Mavericks. 


Miami brings their heralded and hated trio of Wade, James, and Bosh that are averaging 78 points per game in the playoffs. The Heatles have also contributed excellent play on defense where they have tabulating 25 rebounds, 4 blocks, and 10 assist per game. Miami' duo of James and Wade bring two of the most effective rim attackers in the league, both have the experience to take over the game in its finals minutes. Wade and especially James have been playing with poise and have done what ever is necessary to get the win. Miami has elevated their game in the playoffs and many analyst didn't see them coming out of the East. The defense has been superb since the beginning of the playoffs, but since the return of Haslem and Miller the Heat have played the best defense in the playoffs.


Miami has the home court advantage as the games kick off tomorrow in the Magic City and have been undefeated at home so far in the playoffs. This lends Miami a slight advantage due to the format the NBA finals adopt for the final series of 2 games at home and 3 in Dallas, then 2 more in Miami if necessary. Usually if the home team wins the first two, they win the series as has been the case in the vast majority of finals series. One of the only team to win the finals despite losing the first two has been the 06 Miami Heat lead by Dwayne Wade.


Miami has several other advantages in this series namely the defense, Miami has held opponents to 88.3 points per game in the playoffs. Miami is also a better rebounding team and a better shot blocking team than the Mavericks. The Mavs pose problems to the defense in the name of Dirk Nowitski, his shooting and leadership have been the foundation for the Mavericks offense. Add in the best three point shooting remaining in the playoffs and Miami does have their hands full. Dallas on defense is no slouch either, Dallas swept the Lakers and held their own versus a more athletic Oklahoma team. Miami looks to push the ball and get their more athletic team running to the rim. Miami' varied offense and superior athletes pose match up problems for the Mavs, Marion on James and Kidd and Stevenson on Wade will be interesting to watch. Bosh will also be a huge factor his jumper and quick moves to the rim will put Dallas defenders in positions to foul and to get beaten to the rim.


Prediction: Miami in 6, why? In 2006 after losing to Miami, Mark Cuban down played the loss by complaining that the referees lost the game for the Mavs. His campaign against the Heat was well documented and his 2011 comments have not been forgotten by the Heat. Miami will look for revenge in Dallas for his big mouth. Miami' offense is like no offense the Mavericks have faced and stand to piece by piece dismantle the Dallas defense, Wade and James are too unpredictable to stop. The Miami defense can and will slow the Mavs mostly shooting offense with a great perimeter defense of the like Dallas has yet to see. Miami out rebounds the Mavs and the defense stifles the role player for Dallas. Mark Cuban will whine and the fans will too, but Miami wins in 5 or 6. Nothing but Net..

Defeat-a-Bull!

Filet Mignon For Dinner

Miami enters tonight's game in Chicago on a three game playoff winning streak and looks to defeat the Bulls in the house that Jordan built. Miami' defense has been the catalyst for all three wins in this series. The story line's are plentiful in this series as they have been all season. Mike Miller showing up in game four for 12 points, 9 boards, and several key plays all while dealing with the birth of his daughter that is in an ICU unit. Miami wishes the Miller family nothing but blessings and our prayers are with your angel. Udonis Haslem's return  to the court was also key in the Miami Heat' resurgence on the boards and on defense in game two, his year was lost, until Spoelstra called his number and he performed in typical UD fashion, like he was never gone. Mario "Lucky Chalms" Chalmers also came through with key plays, both defensively and offensively. Lucky Chalms must get ready for the finals by establishing his game tonight, Miami will need him to play well and focused.


Despite Dwayne Wade' poor shooting and really non aggressive style in game four that lead me to believe that he was hurt, but his OT play eliminated that thought quickly. Wade is the key in this game five for the Heat, they need him to be more war like and getting him started is important tonight. Wade' blocks on Rose and Deng in game 4, let everyone know he has more in the tank. Getting Wade open using screens and feeding him will be Haslem and James' job, James, I expect he will be the facilitator again for this game and get the role players hot and going. James was spectacular in game four with 35 points, 6 boards, and 3 huge blocks, but his defense on Rose in the fourth will not show up in the box score. He was everywhere and on everyone all game, his one lapse cost the Heat 3 points when Deng hit a three. Other than that, James was brilliant like Guinness beer on defense.


Game five will be no easy task, but if it was easy every team would close out. Miami' experienced core players know they cannot give the Bulls any momentum at all. Miami' bench players must show and place in this horse race. The Bulls bench will be fired up and very physical, they have to be. It will be good experience for them to step up in these types of games and learn to play with pressure. Chicago will be looking to put Roe on an island versus Bibby or Chalmers and probably abandon the pick and roll that Miami defends so well. The boards tonight will be key for the Bulls, so expect a lot of banging down low and hard fouls near the rim. Miami must stretch the floor more tonight than ever, the three point shooters must hit some shots. Miami can finish this tonight, but if they do not, Miami comes home and takes care of business anyway. Nothing but Net...............

Will Rose Wilt In The Miami Heat Again?

Noah taking pictures for FACEbook!

As the sun shines down on a beautiful weekend in Miami filled with blue skies and warm temperatures. The Heatles enter Sunday' game against the Chicago Bulls with home court advantage and momentum. Miami stole a hard fought game two in Chicago and now make their way home to defend a home court that they are undefeated in the playoffs. The Heat' defensive experience and offensive poise will be critical in defending home court against a Bulls team that hasn't lost two straight games since February. Defending Rose is a priority, but I think defending Deng is just as important, James must check him and keep him out of that corner he loves so much, without a secondary scorer, Chicago will lean more on Rose. 


After defeating the Bulls on their home court in game 2, Miami looks to bury the Bulls in some South Beach sand. Miami looks to take the court at the triple A and quell any confidence the Bulls had post game 1, the Bulls three point shooting kept Chicago in game 1 and ultimately sealed the victory. The Bulls could not carry their shooting over into game 2 where they shot a dismal 34% from the field and 15% from three point land. While Miami played excellent defense and lead several time throughout the game, the Bulls kept dwindling the lead with help from their bench. Miami delivered the final blows late in the fourth quarter via James, who single handedly out score the Bulls in the final 5 minutes 9-2, the two came of a Taj Gibson dunks that Wade blocked into Joel Anthony' hand and in the hoop. James was brilliant and stepped up both defensively and offensively, he drove, shot jumpers, and made important free throws to steal a victory on Chicago's vaunted home floor. The Heat were 2nd in the league in 4th quarter opponent field goal percentage with 41.2%, the Bulls where 1st at 41.1%, but Miami turned up the defense in game 2 and held the Bulls to only 10 points total in the 4th and 29 points total in the second half to deal the Bulls their second lose at home in the playoffs.


The biggest numbers that stick out for the Heat are points in the paint, Miami scored 50 points in game 2 and 46 in game 1. Miami being the smaller team did not deter them from playing big, both Wade and James made their way to the rim regularly. Miami' cutters took advantage of the over pursuit of the great Bulls defense for easy buckets at the rim. Haslem' emotion and gritty play added a presence Miami didn't have in game one down low and on the boards. Haslem and his energy contributed to this win more than the entire Miami bench. Heading home I expect a bit more production from Miami natives, James Jones and Udonis Haslem in game 3, as well as Bibby who had yet to make his shots that would spread the floor more for Wade and James to attack.


Miami has the experience to seal this game at home, Miami has demonstrated the poise and defense to beat teams in the triple A. After handling the best offensive team in the league, the Celtics in the second round, Miami faces the best defensive team in the regular season. Miami' versatility on defense has become an advantage for them in the playoffs, shutting down good teams first and then attacking their defense has proved  to be an asset. Miami does have some issues that can become problems. The Heat blew chances at the free throw line in game two, James missed 4 big ones that could've given Miami some more cushion. Turnovers also buried the Heat' lead and gave Chicago momentum after being down by 11. Miami' three point shooting has been way below their average, Bibby, Jones, and Chalmers have failed to convert opportunities into points. Mike Miller' thumbs have really bothered his follow through when shooting, but his knack for finding boards (7) gave Miami a boost in the 4th. Miami has to continue to attack and get the boards, no rebounds, no rings! Nothing but Net.... 

Waaade A Minute!

Udonis Haslem With The Crusher!!

The Miami Heat didn't wear their ski masks in Chicago to steal game two, but the get away jet was warm, ready, and used. Miami played their game like Pat Riley envisioned this summer, Wade, James, Haslem, Bosh, and Miller on the court together. Injuries have kept Udonis Haslem aka "UD", but this was his moment, never in a playoff series has UD been the player of the game, he was in game 2. Wade and James did what James and Wade, they played like men possessed, and now they possess, home court. Wade played a great and patient game, looking for holes and penetrating on nasty cuts to the rim culminated with dunks, his poise kept Miami close. James wasn't clutch, he was what Wade was to the 06' team, in the fourth quarter, he outscored the Bulls 9-2 in the last five minutes with a cold.


Miami came out with the right energy to steal this one, dunks, steals, huge boards, and timely buckets found the Heat in the lead by 11 at one point and close when the Bulls made their runs. Defense is the name of the game and as UD so eloquently put it "No rebounds, no rings". His energy and courage after not being able to play all year, inspired the rest of the Heat. UD said "this has been the best I have felt in a long time" after the win. His leadership and due diligence on the glass and on defense was huge, no gargantuan! After Miami was out rebounded and thoroughly trounced in game 1, UD being the soldier that he is told Coach Spoelstra that he was ready to play more minutes. Spoelstra knows UD well, having taken part in the 06' finals as an Assistant coach. He knew the time was now, and the game asked for UD, it needed him on more than one level, and once again UD delivered. He won't get the credit if Miami wins this series, too many stars for that, but all of Miami will remember game 2 in Chicago. After a year of constant let downs, not being able to contribute, the passing of his Mom, and a hard rehabilitation, this is UD's reward, a win on the road in the playoffs versus the best team in our division when the chips are on the line. He deserved it.


Miami found a way in an ugly but dramatic game 2 and now hold the Bulls in a corral, named the AAA. Will they ride them like Ocho Cinco or like Valdiron de Oliveira, Miami can step on their throats on Sunday and push the Bulls deeper in the hole they are in. Miami played brilliant defense on Wednesday and must continue to put pressure on Chicago shooters, the Bulls will bring the effort on Sunday and Miami must meet it and quell it. Miami' experience now will be critical, the home court advantage is worth the fatigue and the fatigue is a small price to pay for a chance at a title. Nothing but net....

Bosh dunks on Boozer

The Miami Heat Clash With Rose and His Thorns

Sunday couldn't get here quick enough if you are a Heat fan, Bulls fan, B-Ball fan, even the purists want to see these two great teams duel. In a battle of defense and offensive execution, Dwayne Wade and the Miami Heat enter Sunday's game with business on their minds. They face league MVP, Derrick Rose and the Chicago Bulls. The energy around this series is already  filling the United Center and the number one seeded Bulls are underdogs in Vegas. Miami is favored to win but Chicago is formidable and has the home court advantage.


There are many story lines in this match up, including the battle of the last two MVP's. James and Rose will have to play up to MVP quality for their respective teams to advance to the NBA Finals. Rose has been the most explosive guard in the league and his quickness and finishing at the rim will be on display on Sunday. As for James, last years MVP, he can make his detractors swallow their opinions and criticisms by having a great series and leading his team to the Finals. Stopping Rose from penetreating is the Heat' number one priority and forcing him to pass the ball. Miami' defense will have their hands full, but Chalmers and Bibby will be band aids until the final minutes when Wade or James will be covering the MVP. Loul Deng draws James as his defensive check and Deng has played James well, but rarely has he slowed him. Deng is long and quick, and gets help regularly leaving shooters open and James usually finds his mark.


Miami' bench has taken many hits this season, as most NBA fans haven't really seen many Miami games, like us native South Floridians have. The bench has played well in spurts and in stretches, missing Haslem certainly didn't help and Mike Miller' injury didn't either. James Jones and Mario "Lucky Chalms" Chalmers have both given the Heat the help they have needed offensively throughout the season. Chalmers will be of upmost importance in this series, a Chicago fan and Jordan fan, Chalms knows that his presence on defense and at the point can alter this series. Jones will get his shots and can drain them as well as put the ball back into rotation to look for the opn man on the weakside. Bibby and Miller if contributing can be key in helping the bench make an impact on the game, Miller especially can add a dimension that the heat havent had since he hurt his thumbs. The main influence off the bench will be Joel Anthony and his defensive versatility and energy, he will have to match Noah' energy and keep himself out of foul trouble. Anthony is a beast on defense and his shot altering and blocking will be needed. His rebounding in this series will be of the upmost importance, since the Bulls are a great rebounding team. Miami' bench will have to step up and play the game like they have all year.


Miami enters Sunday night with a motivation and focus that it has had since the Allstar break. Lead by James and Wade since the break, Miami has made significant strides this season both defensively and offensively. The Heatles have impressed despite the monumental expectations and have handled the scutiny and most of their critics by using the criticisms as fuel and focus. Rivers was correct in his analysis at the Celtics post game press conference, he knew the media and fans constant judgment and quibbles would only inspire the Heat more. Eric Spoelstra has an opportunity to elevate his team to a new level, by making the adjustments and roster moves to quell the Bulls game plan. I have been impressed with his consistency and his ability to find the opposing teams weakness and exploit it. Adjusments, adjustments, and more adjustments they will be define these first two games, Miami will look to steal one and it probably will be game two.


The Bulls are no slouches and present the Heat with many problems offensively, but Miami' coaching and superior talent still hold the upper hand. Miami' defense will have to create turn overs and force the ball from Rose' hands. Lacking a consistent second scorer can be the Bulls down fall, unless Deng or Boozer step up, but Miami will be there in their face, and Miami won't fail to capitalize on their mistakes. Bosh will be more important than ever, his aggressiveness both offensively and defensively can sway the game in Miami' favor. Bosh must establish his jumper early to set up his driving to the lane effectively and regardless of his offensive output, his rebounding and defense will be more needed anyways.


Real Heat fans are Wade fans, Wade is an icon in Miami and his skill set and heart will forever be admired by Heat fans. His experience and will, plus his incredible physical attributes put him in a league of his own around the league. While others receive individual accolades, D Wade has silently been one of the more consistent scorers and defenders since entering the league. The Miami heat will go as far as Dwayne Tyrone Wade takes them, with him leading the way, Miami will go far, Miami in 6. Nothing but net.....

The Heatles Must Protect Home Court

Miami Heat Mural by Serge Toussaint in Wynwood, Miami

After game one ended on Sunday evening, the Celtic's learned what Miami fans already knew, this is not the same team you beat in the regular season. Miami has made strides all season, but failed to be as consistent as they could of been. The Heat are now demonstrating the poise and experience to knock off the defending champs. With Sunday's victory Miami should be confident, but weary of a veteran team that won't just go away.

The Miami Heat knew their paths would meet and many suspect that Miami has been waiting for this series all year. Miami has evolved into a team, yes I said it, a team. As the Boston Celtic's found out in game 1, Miami has a defense that can stifle even the most efficient offense in the league. Holding the Celtic leaders like Garnett and Pierce to a sub par shooting night. Miami' line up of Wade, James, Bosh, Chalmers, and Anthony crushed every Boston run in game 1. Defense on a string is Miami' philosophy all season and that string will have to be reinforced and lengthened for game two and a more determined Boston team.

The keys to the game are quite simple limit clean looks, close out the lane for Rondo, and don't allow Allen  to shoot undefended. Miami did a good job of limiting Garnett and Rondo on Sunday, both will look to improve their performances. Miami can use the Celtic' aggressiveness against them by taking their time on offense in the half court and making the extra pass. Also pushing the ball and creating miss matches and forcing Boston to defend. Boston will not double or James and Wade will dish to open shooters. Boston will stay home on Jones this game, but I smell a decoy. The extra pass will stretch the floor and make Boston run around more than their old legs want. Miami must be aggressive and patient, allowing Boston to dictate the pace could backfire on the Heat.

Dwayne Wade played a smart game on Sunday and made some great decisions that helped Miami' offense by spreading the defense. Boston had no answer for Wade and will look to limit his open looks. The Bibby' and Chalmers' of Sunday, must step up and force Rondo away from his comfort zones. Rondo was too aggressive on Sunday and won't make the same mistakes, but that said, Chalmers must take him to the rim and draw fouls on him when the lane opens up. Chalmers is my sleeper for this game, his defense is his strength, but he can shoot and will. James Jones will have a bullseye on him all game, that will allow James to drive more than last game and he has been licking his chops. James wants this series win as does Wade, both have been booted by Boston and no one knows Boston better than these two. I see James being very aggressive tonight, both driving to the rim and posting up.

The bench has been Miami' achilles heel for most of the season as per most analysts, but they have proved their true worth. Jones of course had a great offensive impact in game 1, but the real strength of the bench is defense. Joel Anthony has played great for the second half of the season, his energy and presence in the paint keep opponents honest. Mike Miller was quiet in game 1 with no points, but had 3 assists and 3 boards. His game could help Miami spread the floor more and give the Heat one more weapon.

Miami cannot become complacent in game two. Miami made more turnovers than the Celtics in game one and the defensive stops bailed them out. Miami cannot miss free throws or give up offensive rebounds, not versus a scorned veteran team like Boston. Miami out hustled the Celtics in game one and must multiply that effort. Jeff Green' points of the bench kept Boston in the game and he must be checked in this game. Miami' effort and defense quelled ever Boston run on Sunday, they must repeat that performance to succeed and to earn the respect they deserve. To be champions, you must beat champions and Miami knows it. Nothing but net.....  

The MIami Heat Face Yet One More Test, Themselves.

Miami enters tonights game at the triple A, versus the Philadelphia 76ers with thoughts of round two in the back of their collective heads. Miami' nemesis the Boston Celtics defending Eastern Conf. Champions are already home game planning and resting tired bones. The Heatles look to finish off the Sixers and move on to round 2. First the Heat must figure out somethings that have become obstacles in their progression as a team, no not who the closer is, Miami' largest hurdle is themselves.

There is only do or do not, there is no try

Lebron James and Chris Bosh joined the Miami Heat to win rings and Dwayne Wade is the only player East or West, not playing for Los Angeles, Boston, or San Antonio with a World Championship win. Down 2-0 vs the Mavs, he put the team on his back, coming back to steal Dallas' lunch money and parade budget, but he did not do it by himself. Wade was part of a club with multiple Hall of Fame players including Shaq, Alonso Mourning, and Gary "The Glove" Payton all of whom contributed to the Championship run at some point. Wade looks to James and Bosh to contribute with similar performances.

Chris Bosh has never won a playoff series as the star player for the Toronto Raptors and Lebron James took his team to the NBA Finals after many years of failure in the early rounds. James' and Bosh' failures to achieve their goal of winning an NBA Championship can be seen as a failure, but failure is the greatest of motivators. In the world of sports psychology, Attribution theory seeks to explain how an individual’s perceived reasons for past success and failure contribute to their current and future motivation and success. The theory revolves around four causal attributions: ability, effort, task difficulty, and luck. Each is characterized as stable or unstable, internal or external, and controllable or uncontrollable.

James is widely regarded as the most physically gifted players with an incredible basketball IQ. His effort has been questioned by fans and his former owner alike. Last year with Cleveland, James was accused quitting on his teammates and has heard chants of Lequit, Lebum, and Lebrick, all due to his perceived failure wether internal or external. Lebron James arguably the most gifted player reinforced by his two back to back MVP's has had his fair share of failure. Most players would buckle and/or shy away from the bright lights after so much disappointment, but Lebron' drive and mental toughness used that only as motivation. After his long streak of misadventure, his decision to leave Cleveland for Miami can be directly correlated to his desire to succeed and quiet his detractors, but instead they multiplied. Dwayne Wade being a former Champion, has the GPS coordinates to success. He is the only player of all the contenders in the playoffs, not playing for Los Angeles, San Antonio, and Boston with the Championship road map. Derrick Rose, Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, Dwight Howard, Chris Paul, Joe Johnson, and of course Dirk Nowitski know that the road exists, but don't even have a map. Lebron' mental toughness has been put to the test all year long, every arena he entered from the very beginning of the season assaulted him with a plethora of slurs, boos, attacks, mocks, burns, digs, and I wont go into the all round general hate. Even his Mother's failure's have been thrown in to the mix, in an attempt to rattle his cage, yet James has not only performed, he's improved.

The Heatles are on the verge of confronting their Goliath, the proverbial monsters under the bed, The Baaaston Celtics! Boston' guile and perspicacity bring a formidable opponent to once again test the meddle of not only James, but Bosh' also. In the words of the Yoda of basketball Pat Riley "There can only be one state of mind as you approach any profound test; total concentration, a spirit of togetherness, and strength". The Miami Heat must close out the Sixer' tonight in Miami and prepare for the war versus Boston, they already have the physical edge, the rest in mental. Nothing but net...

The Heatles Can Make History

The Heatles are in position 

In the past 25 years the Lakers, Spurs, Bulls, Heat, Celtics, Detroit, and Rockets have been the few teams that can say we are world Champions. The Miami Heat' one and only ring was delivered by the Dwayne Wade lead team of 06' with a historic comeback to defeat the Mavericks. Of those teams previously mentioned, five are in playoff contention this year. Miami has Wade 29, James 27, and Bosh 27, in their relative primes, while the Lakers, the Spurs, and the Celtics are growing old before our eyes. All quality teams in the age of free agency are destined to loose players, coaches, and front office personnel to shifts in competition. Miami has positioned itself to compete now with these seasoned but older and slower clubs reaching the twilight of their runs, right now.

Miami have The Heatles, the building blocks to compete for years to come with the addition of role players, specialists, and veterans. That, and some timely scoring from role players the Heat may redeem James of his famous quote "not 1, not 2, etc...". James will have to play his best basketball, not just scoring a ton of points to get it done this year. Miami will have to earn those potential titles as the the Bulls and New York have made significant strides. With the addition of Boozer and ringer MVP Rose' accelerated growth, Chicago is in position to challenge for some time. Anthony and Stoudemire joining the Knicks added fuel to the fire it seems clear, Pat Riley started in the East, as he changed the game yet again.

The clear demarcation line between these clubs is the seasoning of these three teams, Wade and James bring their version of Lamar Odom in Bosh playing solid and efficient basketball in the playoffs where he's averaged 23 points and 11 boards in two games while shooting 56%. With a finals experience under their belts James and Wade, a 06' finals MVP himself, appear to have the key ingredients to be front runners to win a championship this year. The only Heat ring came on the back of Wade in 06' and a band of talented, but aging veteran ball players that were the only team to be down 0-2 and win a ring. Wade showed the league that a team of regular season under achievers can win a Championship. That experience Wade gained in 06' coupled with Lebron James' well documented short comings in the 07' finals, give The Heatles an upper hand, this year. Nothing but net...

The Heatles take care of business

Bosh is key to winning basketball for Miami

Some say the playoffs is where athletes make their money, well the Heatles earned their checks and then some. Miami came at the Sixer's from the get and didn't slow down til the game was won. Miami did what everyone around the country was waiting to see on national TV. After their first game in the series was too close for comfort the Heat brought the defense early, lead by Dwayne Wade and his steal and dunk to start a run that Philly never recovered from.

Miami completely exposed the Sixer's offense and defense like good teams are supposed to. They stepped on Philly' necks and didn't let them up. This is what Miami fans have been waiting to see. Lebron lead the way with 29 point, 7 boards, and 6 assists, but his defense was smothering. Chris Bosh continued his series with 21 points and 11 boards, since the break he has been driving more and shooting less, but his pick and rolls have been key. Once again Miami' defense played with energy and Joel Anthony was a beast against every defender, especially Thaddeus Young, his three blocks vs Young led to breaks and limited Sixer's to mid range jumpers. Dwayne Wade made his mark after a night of migraines with his steal and dunk in the second Philly possession. That set the wheels in motion for the rest of the game. Miami never looked back.

Miami made a statement to every playoff team, that they are ready for these playoffs, the rest of the league is on notice. The Heatles are for real and they are gaining strength like a hurricane, while many contenders are stalling like cold fronts.

Act like you've been here before

Well, all the game one' have been played in the first weekend of playoff basketball and it was a good one, no great one. The Miami Heat took care of business against the Sixer's and got one under their belts, but its just one of many to come. Many of the teams that were upset today played well, but were outplayed by a better team that day. Many will point at fouls, hard fouls, and non calls, to them I say, welcome to the Playoffs.

In Miami' first playoff game in the Heatles generation, the Heat played a good game for the most part. Miami was down in the first quarter and caused Heat fans to worry, but Miami fought through the waves of Sixer players of their deep bench. Miami led for most of the way, until a fourth quarter run brought the Sixer's to within one point. Miami gathered themselves and with help from Bosh with 24 points and 12 boards and James adding 21 points and 14 boards to quell the Sixer's final run. Dwayne Wade was the difference though his stat line won't show it, as it so often does. Wade made his late game shots and created shots where there were none. Miami' capacity to get to the line was key. Two rim attackers driving continuously will do that and as a fan I am grateful, especially for Bosh. The bench, though quiet did just enough, especially on the defensive end. Miami did have some lapses on the offensive end and seemed to be lulled into jumpers when ahead. Miami also turned the ball over 5 more times than the Sixer's. Missed free throws and turnovers have plagued the offense and opens the door for opponents to make quick runs.

The Playoffs are here and the games will be tough and the fouls will be hard. Many players have started the complaining and coaches have also chimed in. These are the playoffs and there are no freebies here, act like you've been here before. Nothing but Net...

History may repeat it self

In your face MVP, again?

Sunday the Miami Heat took a step forward and defeated one demon in the Boston Celtics 100-77. They started off slow and really freaked out the fans for the first minutes of the first quarter after falling behind by 9. Miami settled in and grabbed a lead into the 2nd quarter and didn't look back. The Heatles defense was stifling the Celtic offense particularly Ray Allen, he was Waded out. Wade didn't play his best game, but he created the flow along with inspiring play from Chalmers and Anthony. Anthony was all over the place, Boston never rotated to him of the pick and roll, and he made them pay.The energy and the hustle for loose balls gave the game a playoff mood. The fouls were hard and Miami quelled each Celtic run with a smothering defense and a transition game that reminded me old Laker Showtime. It's those small plays the Miami was missing in their game plan. Chalmers defense was great, Rio has been playing better and I see him making a difference in the playoffs. Everyone forgets he made the game winning shot after leading Kansas to National Championship. He may get a chance to snatch another Championship from Derrick Rose, if he continues playing like this. If Miami can harness that defensive energy, limit their turnovers, and make their free throws, Miami look prime to see their way to the Finals.

The Heat "Harry Pottered" the Wizards

After losing to Cleveland on the front end of a back to back road game, the Heat regain their winning ways. Beating the aggressive Washington Wizards wasn't piece of red velvet cake. In a game with 48 fouls called, 30 were by the Wizards. Of course the biggest foul was called after the altercation between Big Z and John Wall's little self, that cost the Heat two ejections. Juwan Howard was also ejected along with Big Z, but I.d like to point out that Howard is a crafty veteran. He handled the situation correctly, he defended his teammates and let them know he has their back. Miami went on to win handedly for their 52nd win of the season.

This maybe a prelude of whats to come for the Heat in the playoffs. Many teams will either be forced to play aggressive defense against the Heat. Having two of the best rim attackers already give Miami an edge at the free throw line against most teams. Since the Heat have a reputation for being soft, I can see physical teams trying to get an edge by hacking and getting under the Heats skin. Add in troubles finishing games and a weak bench and you can see where I am going. Miami's biggest lose this season was losing Udonis Haslem to injury. He was the presence, the doer, the enforcer, and the heart and soul of this team. If UD can get back to contribute, he can just what Miami needs.

Nothing but Net!

Curse you Winter Music Conference

     Entering or exiting the American Airlines Arena for Sunday' Heat game against the Houston Rockets was an adventure in driving even for Miami standards. As I sat by the pool and watched the game from home, I could imagine the game attendees arriving and departing from the arena. During one week in March, the digital music world convenes in Miami. Bringing with them hundreds of events, hundreds of thousands of followers, international DJ's, and sponsors galore. Include the Sony Erickson tennis tournament and the County Fair into the equation and the what you get is congestion! I didn't even factor the normal Sunday drivers (Aargh!) or the regular beach traffic either.

     But I digress, The Heat where playing and many made it out despite the traffic and the 70+ pool parties. Miami Heat fans get a bad rap for showing up late to games that supposedly every other city would be pining for. Blah blah blah! Miami fans got stuff to do people! The diversity of things to do on any given day is so wide and culturally varied, that I could use this whole post to list them. Plus we are mostly on Cuban time and fashionably late. We want to make an entrance and see and bee seen. Miami games are like going out to restaurant, a bar, and a night club with a basketball game somewhere. Have you been to the Dewar's Club? So unlike most frigidly cold cities across the country, Miami is hot and a place to be.

The Heatle's were amazing today, that's all I can say. Oh and check out these stat lines:

• Lebron James: 33 points, 10 boards, and 7 dishes
• Dwayne Wade: 30 points, 11 boards, 5 dishes, and 2 blocks
• Chris Bosh: 31 points, 12 boards, and 3 assists

    That's a grand total of: 94 points, 33 boards, 15 dishes, and 2 blocks!  Need I say more! Three players haven't put up those numbers in a regulation 48 minute game since 1961. The ones that did it most recently in 1997, took 3 overtimes to accomplish this feat. The Heatle's are the hottest ticket in town, and in Miami thats no easy feat.

Nothing but net!

Dwayne Wade slashes the Sixers

     I'm not one of those guy that likes to compare teammates, it's not fair. Lebron James is a mix of my two favorite players Magic and Jordan. He is truly a great player. But Dwayne Wade is truly unique, he can do it all! 5 Blocks and 39 points, are you kidding me?  * assist, too. D-Wade was "DD" tonight. It was one of his better performances this year against an athletic and aggressive team.
    As I caught my repeat telecast on Sunshine, I saw a team grow before my eyes. Lead by a nasty Dwayne Wade at his finest. From the nose bleeds they can see Wade fly off his left foot to facebook the Sixer' D. Philly is a good and athletic team with good coaching, but they folded a lead and never got it back.
The Heat are not only meshing, they are winning big games against good teams. Despite trailing by 16 at one point they rallied to win. The addition of the pick and roll to Bosh' game has been a good wrinkle in his game. The bench eh not so much, but what can you do. Everyone knew the bench would be thin, but loosing U.D. really exposed the deficiency.
    Still, despite the issues and the hype, this team is showing up every night. With a weakish schedule coming up and a showdown with Celts on the 10th of March. The Heat are playing cohesive, unselfish, and aggressive basketball.