Brooklyn’s win in game 3 re-ignited suspense in a series that seemed to be controlled by the Heat, who prior to their loss at the Barclays Center led 2-0. But since their home win, Paul Pierce’s side have a legitimate chance to advance to the Eastern Conference Final, if they can win game 4… Because a 3-1 deficit would clearly be insurmountable, especially considering they would have to win two games on the road. That makes tonight’s game crucial for Jason Kidd’s side, who, if they can tie the series up to 2-2, have a real opportunity to create the upset against the reigning champions, although the task would be far from completed.
Being the first team to beat the Heat on their home floor in the playoffs so far is easier said than done, But its possible. Especially if they can keep up their level of play that they achieved in game 3. After two heavy defeats on the road, the Nets showed a whole new face at home: A franchise record 15 three-pointers, whilst only conceding 90 points and teamwork that we haven’t been used to seeing. With six players scoring in double-digits and 26 assists (double Miami’s assist total), Brooklyn finally looked like a tight-knit group, and that was what allowed them to blow the Heat out by 14 points, not a result that many teams can claim.
Tonight, however, Miami will no doubt be as hungry as ever, because their complacency and lack of physicality that they showed in game 3 will no doubt disappear. They know just as well as we do that if they win game 4 they will be practically assured to reaching the Eastern Final, again. So as well as keeping up the team play, continuing to fight for every rebound (the Nets out-rebounded Miami 43-27 in game 3) and making shots from the perimeter, Brooklyn are going to have to work extremely hard to contain Miami’s big three. As a group, Wade, Bosh and Lebron shot 50% from the field in game 3, combining for 60 points. That clearly outlines the fact that Brooklyn’s main task on defense is to smother the fire created by Lebron and his two wing men. Paul Pierce is going to have to continue playing very physically on against Lebron, because although that may lead to a handful of spectacular and-ones from the former MVP, the King does not like playing against hard defense. In addition to this, with the crowd behind them, the Nets are likely to be advantaged slightly by the refereeing.
Brooklyn must not rest on the laurels. Yes, the win in game 3 was very impressive, but tonight’s game is just as important. If they can keep their cool whilst providing some spectacular basketball, the home crowd and their renewed confidence could allow them to tie this series up, consequently giving themselves a chance of ending Miami’s rule over the NBA. But that can only be a potential outcome if they secure a victory tonight. Ladies and gentlemen, sit back and enjoy this game 4, it promises to be spectacular.
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