Celtics vs Heat – NBA Season Day 3 Recap

Miami 115 – Boston 107. Last season it took the Miami Heat the whole season to crack the code against the Boston Celtics. In last nights game they had Boston’s number early. Let’s not forget that Boston played without Paul Pierce. The Heat played to their strengths – faster and more athletic basketball. They stormed out to an early lead and looked to be playing video game basketball on pace to score 180 points. However in the fourth quarter, Boston showed that championship will that has kept them competitive until the final whistle. Miami continues to struggle in playing against a zone defense but in a surprise – the rookie point guard Norris Cole stepped up to the challenge of breaking down the zone with some fantastic play down the stretch.

Notables: Miami came out on fire. They played harder and at a much faster pace than last year. Lets see if they can keep up the pace throughout the season. Also look to see if their faster offense will have a negative impact on their league leading defense from last season.
LeBron James finished the game with 26 points, 6 rebounds and 5 assists. He showed his best commitment to playing team basketball this season in NOT taking any 3 point shots and following up with a tip-in after an attempted alley-oop pass to Dwyane Wade (which Wade missed).
Chris Bosh finally knocked down his first 3 pointer from the top of the key this season. He’s been working on that shot during the off season. If he can be consistent with that shot it should open up the offense for Wade and James to work the post easier.
Norris Cole played fearless and came up big in by scoring 14 of his 20 points in the fourth quarter.
Paul Pierce did not play. He is still recovering from a bone bruise in his right heel.

Highlight of the Night by NBA via YouTube: