Heat-Thunder: Ibaka vs. Bosh in the Battle of Block vs. Fake

Chris Bosh and Serge Ibaka are well-matched opponents. The former is a wise veteran, with possibly the league's best shot-fake for a big man. The latter is an athletically gifted shot-swatter, possibly the best in the league. They will be matched up for much of these Finals, and the winner of this oft-ignored matchup may decide the series.

Chris Bosh: He is 6'10.25'' without shoes, meaning that he is nearly seven feet tall in NBA parlance. This presents a height advantage over his opponent, one Bosh should exploit in pick-and-pop situations. Bosh excels at hitting long jumpers, shots that free up driving lanes for Dwyane Wade and LeBron James. In his best year with the long two, Bosh nailed 47 percent of his attempts between 16 and 23 feet, while launching six per contest. 

Against the Celtics in Game 7, he hit three three-pointers, demonstrating a new facility with the trey. His aforementioned shot-fake will be crucial in going against Ibaka, as the youngster frequently jumps if prompted just a bit. Health will be a concern for Bosh, as he's coming off an abdominal strain, which is a painful, lingering injury. His rebounding has taken a dip since coming to the Heat, perhaps because Miami rebounds well at nearly every position. 

Serge Ibaka: He could get a max contract if the Thunder were playing him star minutes. In only 27 minutes a night, the 22-year-old power forward is swatting a league-leading 3.7 shots per game, mostly from the weak side. Ibaka also rebounds excellently for his position, pulling down 10 boards per 36 minutes. 

But boards and blocks don't comprise the whole of Ibaka's game. In the mold of Chris Bosh, he's added a nice pick-and-pop jumper. Ibaka hit 47 percent of his long twos this year, though only shooting 2.6 per game. This bodes well for his future and his present. It also opens up more room for Kevin Durant, James Harden and Russell Westbrook to operate in.

While Ibaka is a plus defender, he struggles in one-on-one situations. The talent and shot-blocking are clearly there, but he must learn patience if he is to stymie Bosh.

Prediction: If Bosh is healthy, this matchup should swing to the Heat. If not? Well, Miami had better pray that Perkins has a terrible playoff series (possible).