Tuesday, June 07, 2011

Game 4 - Repeat Performance

Game 4 was similar to its the first three of the series in several ways. Wade had another extraordinary game with 32 points, 6 rebounds, and two impressive fourth quarter blocks. Miami seemed to numerous demoralizing offensive rebounds. Dallas gave up some wide open shots in the paint. Dallas exhibited spurts of sloppy play. And Dallas's zone defense was effective. Dallas also fell far behind.

But Dirk, who was suffering from the flu and a fever, received some help in Game 4. Chandler, who scored 13 points, was a monster on the glass in the fourth. He ended with 16 grabs for the game, 9 on the offensive side. Barea still struggled, this time in a starting role, but Terry had 17. Marion had 16.

Wade didn't have as much help. Bosh shot better and poured in 24. But LeBron, who had 7 assists, only had 8 points. Chalmers played good defense, had 5 points, and 6 assists. But the rest of the Heat did not play well.

Miami held a slim 2 point lead at the half, despite poor shooting. Offensive rebounding and Dallas turnovers were responsible for Miami staying in the game. Late in the third, the Heat surged into the lead. Miami had a 72-65 lead two minutes into the final quarter, looking to go up 3-1 in the series.

Dallas showed their customary resilience. Dirk, who had 21 points and 11 rebounds, Terry, and Chandler were the heroes of the comeback. Yet Miami had a chance to tie on the final possession. Down 86-83, Mike Miller inbounded the ball to Wade. Wade failed to catch it and had to save it from becoming a backcourt violation. The ball unexpectedly wound up in Miller's hands. He fired a prayer that harmlessly hit the ground after flying through the air.

Dallas won 86-83, and despite Jason Kidd's sustained poor play throughout the series, have tied things at 2.

No comments: