The Basketball Palace: James leads Heat over Knicks 102-91

The Miami Heat played one of their best games in a while. After falling behind early by 13 points, the Heat would fight back into the game and work this game in their favor. For the most part they controlled this game once they were able to protect the ball. Early they turned the ball over too many times leading to opportunities for New York. Once they were able to stop turning it over, their offense was very solid. In the end the Heat made plays offensively to hold the Knicks off. Miami would win this game 102-91 in what was an excellent showing from them.

LeBron James played like an MVP today. His play early was sluggish, but he got it going and never looked back. James scored a game-high 38 points and dished out six assists. He used every bit of his game today as he made shots and drove to the basket. He looked very good in the open floor as he took the ball right at the Knicks. His play is always consistent and today he played with excellent poise and strength to get the job done.

Mario Chalmers and Chris Bosh provided secondary scoring for the Heat. They were huge in getting points for the team when they had opportunities. Chalmers was very important today. With the Heat not having Dwyane Wade today, Chalmers stepped up and did everything he could to help get the win. He played hard and looked to do what was necessary to win today. Bosh also was strong as he made big shots to get the Heat in position to win. His three-point shot has really stretched the floor for the Heat. Today Bosh only made one three-pointer, but it was a big shot. This was a very important game for Miami and they played very strong.

For New York, their season is slowly ending despite a nice showing today. They fought back after the Heat went on run after run. JR Smith was the Knick that wouldn’t let them go down without a fight. Smith would break two records today. The first was a Knick record of three-pointers made in a game with ten. The second was three-pointers attempted with 22 which is now an NBA record. He did have a big game despite all of the three-pointers. Smith scored 32 points to lead the Knicks today. He has shot the ball really well over the last three games. Today was by far his best game in terms of the amount of three-pointers.

Overall this loss continues to push New York back with the race for the eighth seed on the line. They were hoping Carmelo Anthony would play better, but he would have another struggling performance. Anthony scored just 13 points for his second consecutive poor performance and it could not come at a worse time. His play this season has been consistent, but now with the season on the line Anthony has struggled. His shoulder must really be bothering him, but if that’s the case he’s better off sitting out rather than pressing and hurting the team.

The Knicks season is still alive, but they have to start winning again if they want any chance at the playoffs. The Heat won this game with excellent offensive execution. They played hard the entire game and wanted this game. They still are trying to capture the one seed in the east, where they currently sit. This game was very entertaining and fun to watch. Both teams made runs and made plays, but in the end Miami wanted it more.