Heat vs Thunder Game 4: Miami Must Close out Series at Home

The Miami Heat have now taken a lead in the NBA Finals. If they want to win it all, they cannot lose another game.

In the current format, the Heat play the next two games at home. Oklahoma City will host the final two games if necessary. Miami was fortunate to win one road game this series, they should not count on another one.

The Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City is one of the loudest facilities in the country. The Thunder had only lost seven games during the regular season and none in the playoffs until Game 2 of the Finals. With a young team that feeds off the crowd in big situations, they are unlikely to lose again.

However, right now the Heat have the control. They only have a one-game lead, but the pressure is starting to build on the players and staff of their opponents.

Coach Scott Brooks is being told to do a better job with his lineups. Kevin Durant needs to take over games. Russell Westbrook needs to pass more. James Harden needs to make more shots.

These men are used to the spotlight, but not this much criticism. It seems as though they are starting to second-guess themselves during the game and it is leading to more problems.

At this point, the worst thing the Heat can do is allow them to regain their confidence. The Thunder have been shooting terribly, especially from the free-throw line, but this squad is deadly if they play to their potential. Miami cannot let that happen.

For the first time in years, the media is not questioning LeBron James. The league's Most Valuable Player has been outstanding in the playoffs, averaging over 30 points and 10 rebounds in each round. He still has doubters, but the more he wins, the quieter they get.

Unfortunately, a loss would bring all of the criticisms back to LeBron and his teammates. This would not bode well for the team's chances.

Instead, the team has to keep its foot on the gas and finish off the Thunder in the next two games. Going on the road, where the Heat are 5-5 this postseason, for the final games of the series could be a death sentence.

Momentum is an important thing in a close series like this. The Heat currently have it, but if they lose it now they might never be able to get it back.