2011 NBA Playoffs: 10 Things to Do When Playing the Miami Heat

ilee colemanApr 16, 2011

If you want to beat the Miami Heat, there are certain things you must do:

Make LeBron Make Shots: He is NOT a big-time scorer from the field. LeBron is very effective getting to the line and drawing fouls. If you can make him have to score without fouling him and staying home on the shooters, you dramatically raise your chances for success.
Double-Team Dwyane Wade: This is the guy that makes shots for the team. You must double him in the fourth quarter to get the ball out of his hands. He is relentless and puts too much pressure on your defense when he is allowed to get into his penetration moves. Make someone else step up to beat you.
Run James Jones Off the Three-Point Line: Don't just make him move, make him have to score. Play him honest and make him put the ball on the floor.
Do Not Jump To Make Passes: This team is quick and agile—by far the best at shooting the gaps and creating steals when you leave your feet to make passes. They will turn you over and change ends so fast it will make your head spin.
Take the Ball To the Basket: Strong!!! Long, missed jumpers puts this team of thoroughbreds in transition which is what you DON'T want. You must attack the basket where they are most vulnerable.
Pressure LeBron in the Backcourt: If LeBron is going to continue to be the facilitator, you must apply pressure to him bringing the ball up the court. If you allow him to casually come to the frontcourt without any pressure and cruise to the three-point line, he will drop his shoulder and barge his way to the basket. You must find him early in transition and stop the ball. Make him go east/west, NOT north/south.
Keep Them Off the Free-Throw Line: James and Wade have the ball in their hands 90 percent of the time. Do not bail them out by fouling. Not only will the referees give them preferential treatment, it will also put your team in a bonus situation.
Believe You Can Win: I know this is hard, but try it. The referees are going to make bogus calls. Deal with it. They are going to give them the benefit on a 50-50 call. Now what? You going to quit? Stick to your game plan and play with confidence. Hungry sharks can spot wounded prey a mile away. Play like a winner. Be in awe later.
Take Offensive Fouls on LeBron: I know no one wants to because he is like a freight train when he gets a head of steam going, but allowing him to come down the lane without any fear is ridiculous. Go home because you WILL NOT WIN.
Call Out the Referees: Take a page from Phil Jackson and call out the refs. Bring light to the fact that they let the superstars get away with certain things. Let it be known that King James pushes off and charges. Get fined by David Stern by making the public look for the obvious.