The Miami Heat took yet another step towards an NBA Championship tonight as they defeat the Oklahoma City Thunder 104-98. The Heat had an unexpected hero tonight in the form of Mario Chalmers. His play really picked the Heat up in key spots in this game. Chalmers had 25 points in this game and those points really had an impact on this game. Not only did Chalmers play well, but he was aggressive in his shooting.
Not only did Chalmers play well, but LeBron James had a spectacular game. James scored 26 points, dished out 12 assists, and grabbed 9 rebounds in tonight’s win. James did leave the game after experiencing what looked to be cramps. James did hit a big three before leaving the game that really gave the Heat tons of momentum to close out the game. James has been wrongfully criticized the entire playoffs. Tonight James proved that the past is the past and he has finally moved on from it.
The Thunder came out with all the energy in the world and at one point took a 17 point lead. But all of that came crashing down as the Heat went on plenty of runs to take the lead. The Thunder did have an excellent performance out of Russell Westbrook, who scored 43 points. Westbrook finally had his jumper going tonight and made the Heat pay. His game really was nice and efficient tonight. But a late mental mistake by him would arguably cost his team the game.
Kevin Durant scored 28 points in this game. Durant really had trouble getting the ball. Durant tried to post up the smaller Shane Battier, but Battier did an excellent job in getting in front of him and making it harder for him to get the ball. Durant made adjustments later in the game to get shot opportunities, but it was too late.
The Thunder have to be concerned with James Harden. This series Harden has had one solid game and that has really made it hard on the Thunder to win. Harden really didn’t have an impact on this game and countless times missed open shots. Harden had just 8 points tonight and really struggled to score. Harden missed easy shots and at one point missed a point-blank layup/dunk attempt.
This series is now in favor of the Heat and they are one win away from winning a NBA Championship. This was a very intense game and the Heat won it with grit and toughness. Both teams fought hard tonight, but the Heat were able to get the job done. The Heat now take a 3-1 series lead and are in control of the series. They could possibly close out the series Thursday night in Miami.
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