MIAMI ā The Miami Heat head into Game Four against the Philadelphia SixerĀ Saturday trailing two games to one. Local 10 sports producer David Lang has a game plan for the Heat to even things up.
1. Engage Hassan Whiteside
The Heat's enigmatic big man has been a no-show for the first three games of the series. Ā Heat fans were hoping a showdown with Phillyās Joel Embiid would motivate Hassan. Ā So far, it hasĀ not.
2. Play physical for 48 minutes
The Heat were tough against Philly for threeĀ quarters in Game 3. Ā In the fourth, the defense slacked and Philly feasted.
3. Play Game 2 defense
The Heatās only win this series happened because of Dwyane Wadeās 28-point performance, but also because of incredible defense. Ā The Heat didnāt let Ben Simmons get an inch. Ā They exploited his poor free-throw shooting and youth to get in his head.Ā It's time to re-engage with that level of toughness.
4. Role players step upĀ
They say role players play better at home during the Playoffs. Ā Miami needs to make this true. Ā Perhaps Wayne Ellington can catch fire from 3 or Bam Adebayo will throw down a few big slams.
5. Use the crowd
The American Airlines Arena doesn't want the White Hit energy to flame out early. Ā The Heat need a fast start to get the crowd into it and spread the belief that they can win. Ā Otherwise, the Heatās players could have tee times by next weekendĀ