NBA Finals Schedule 2012: X-Factors That Must Make Presence Felt in Game 1

There will be no shortage of star power when the Miami Heat and Oklahoma City Thunder battle in the NBA Finals starting on Tuesday. While LeBron James and Kevin Durant are sure to steal the spotlight, both players will need support from teammates to win it all.

Let's take a look at three players who will be key factors throughout the series. Getting off to a good start in Game 1 is essential to their success. For a complete look at the NBA Finals schedule to see when to watch them, visit the league's official site.

Serge Ibaka

Ibaka has always been a strong defensive player with the ability to block shots and rebound, but he showed off an improving offensive game in Oklahoma City's comeback against the San Antonio Spurs. He even had a perfect 11-for-11 shooting night in a Game 4 win.

If the athletic big man is able to provide some extra scoring punch in the post against the Heat, the Thunder offense will be extremely difficult to stop for Miami's limited rotation. He needs to take some early jumpers in an attempt to find his rhythm again.

At the same time, his defense around the rim will be more important than ever. With James and Dwyane Wade attacking the rim frequently, Ibaka must make life tough on them and avoid it becoming a layup fest for the Heat offense.

Chris Bosh

It took a couple games for Bosh to get back on track after returning from injury, but he finally looked like the third superstar for Miami in Game 7 against the Boston Celtics. He stretched the floor with jump shots and allowed Wade and James to work their magic.

For the Heat to match Oklahoma City's diverse attack, Bosh can't afford to have any setbacks. He's the team's only reliable contributor in the paint, so anything less than an All-Star performance in Game 1 and beyond will be trouble.

The series is also a chance for Bosh to change his image. He's always been looked at as a finesse player and the Thunder have some powerful post players like Ibaka and Kendrick Perkins. So he needs to show a little more grit in the paint.

Derek Fisher

Most of the Thunder players will be taking part in the biggest games of their careers. That's not the case for Fisher. He's been through these battles before and must serve as a calming, veteran influence for the young Oklahoma City roster.

He played the role to perfection against the Spurs, which is a major reason the Thunder never looked worried despite losing the first two games. Fisher never attempts to hide from the big moment, and that's why he's still a valuable player despite looking a couple steps slower.

The 37-year-old point guard will be looking for his sixth ring. But in order to earn it, he has to guide the way for the Thunder, especially early in the series when there's sure to be some butterflies.

If he sets a positive tone, Oklahoma City will be in good shape.