What we often frame as "killer instinct" can sometimes more prosaically be understood as "doing your job." Despite the geyser-lift blocks and slithering layups, Dwyane Wade is hurting the Miami Heat by simply not getting back on defense. It's bizarre and should be easily rectified.

Except why is this happening in the first place?

"Why is this happening in the first place?" is a discomfiting question if you're a Heat fan. Though a great player, Wade has had this issue for years. A non-foul call turns into an argument, which turns into a layup at the other end.

All that's fine in the regular season, but why at this stage, with stakes this high? I almost ask out of simple curiosity. 

Of course, the other team deserves credit.

Kevin Garnett had to exploit his matchup, and he's done that with aplomb. With Chris Bosh ailing, the Heat can scarcely prevent KG from catching post-entry passes near the bucket or grabbing crucial boards.

Rajon Rondo has ably taken advantage of Miami's defensive miscues and made a few hustle plays that may have altered the series (the rebound tap to Pietrus comes to mind). 

For the Heat to come back in this series, they need to prevent an aging team from scoring in transition.

That this is an issue is a bigger issue in and of itself.