NBA Playoffs 2011 Morning After: Miami Heat vs. Boston Celtics Game 3
Garnett came out on top last night.
The Good
Joel Anthony (12 PTS, 11 REB, 6/7 FG) and Mario Chalmers (17 PTS, 4 REB, 3 ASS, 3 STL, 7/9 FG, 2/4 3FG) were the only Heat players who played efficient offensively. Joel made a major impact on the game’s first half, while 'Rio consistently knocked down open shots.
The Bad
Miami’s Big Three of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh shot a combined 15-of-41 from the field. Why did Bosh only have six attempts?
The Ugly
Boston outscored Miami 53-35 in the second half. The Celtics intensity, especially on the defensive end, was on a different wavelength. Bosh, Wade and James were bothered by the pressure and physical play and couldn’t get in their comfort zones. Still, can the elderly Celtics maintain that type of intensity without three days off after each game?
Three Adjustments
Lineup Change
It’s time to give Zydrunas a seat. The Heat need defense and toughness to start games, especially alongside Bosh. Anthony will still play the majority of center minutes, but it’s clear he’s best utilized as a reserve. Where in the world is Erick Dampier? How about Jamaal Magloire? They need someone to set the tone and both of those guys can be useful in a 10- to 15-minute role.
Make It Harder on KG
Kevin Garnett (28 PTS, 18 REB, 13/20 FG) looked awfully good last night as he unleashed his entire arsenal on the Heat. Everything was dropping. Even Anthony had issues defending him.
The Heat need to body him up early and force him to catch farther away from the hoop. (Notice where most of his shots were coming from in his shot chart below). Bosh was incredibly soft when matched up with him.
Increase the Pace
The only player on Boston's roster who wants to run is Rondo, and he’s hurting bad after suffering a dislocated elbow. His status is in question. The Celts don’t have three full days off to recover this time. Miami needs to get stops and push the ball. Run them into the ground and they will wear down.
Bottom Line
Miami’s stars couldn’t have played much worse while Boston’s couldn’t have played better. Rondo is hurting. The Celtics were in a must-win scenario coming off three days rest. If you’re a Heat fan, you have plenty of reason for optimism.
