The Miami Heat struggled offensively during their latest NBA playoff game, with a field goal percentage of 39%, 22% from beyond the arc, and barely 50% for close-range shots. However, their strong defense carried the team to victory, bringing them two wins away from reaching the Eastern Conference finals once more.
Jimmy Butler, returning from a sprained right ankle, scored 28 points, while Max Strus contributed 19 points, helping the Heat defeat the New York Knicks 105-86. This win gave Miami a 2-1 lead in their East semifinal series. Head coach Erik Spoelstra emphasized the importance of competing at a high level to achieve success.
Although the Heat's shooting was subpar, the Knicks fared even worse, with a 34% field goal percentage, 20% from 3-point range, and only 46% from the restricted area. Miami's guard, Kyle Lowry, commented on the importance of adapting to different game situations and focusing on winning, no matter the margin.
New York's Jalen Brunson scored 20 points, with Josh Hart adding 15, RJ Barrett 14, and Immanuel Quickley 12 before leaving the game due to an ankle sprain. Julius Randle contributed 10 points and 14 rebounds for the Knicks. The fourth game of the series is set for Monday.
Miami maintained a double-digit lead throughout the game, despite both teams struggling to make shots. The Heat's defensive abilities were crucial in securing the win, as emphasized by Butler.
During the game, tensions rose briefly between Randle and Cody Zeller, with Isaiah Hartenstein and Caleb Martin joining the scuffle. After a review, offsetting technical fouls were given to Zeller and Hartenstein, with an additional technical foul for Martin.
Despite a limping Butler, the Heat dominated the game from the beginning, showcasing their resilience and adaptability. The team's playoff experience, with players such as Lowry, Butler, Kevin Love, Bam Adebayo, and Duncan Robinson, gives them an edge over the less seasoned Knicks.
