Heat Avoid First Losing Streak, Sneak by Rockets

Sorry to cover another Heat game but you have to say, objectively speaking this game had the highest potential of any on monday night (admit it, you didn't think that Jazz Raptors game would finish in 3/OTs either). It didn't disappoint as the Rockets, behind a barrage of three point shots and the occasional fast break, kept this game interesting until the end. The Heat won behind Lebron's dagger, which was followed byJeremy Lin and James Harden missing 3's during the Rockets final two possessions (rough).




Things to Take Away:

The Heat:
Lebron James ladies and gentlemen lets take a look at his stat line from last night, shall we?

38 points (14-26 FG, 5-8FT, 5-8 3pt FG), 10 rebounds, 6 assists, and no turnovers.
This basketball Terminator is playing about as flawlessly as a "human" being can play the game. I'll just say it I'm done hating this guy, and he's fucking talented (revelatory I know), if he wins another championship this season its because he's the best basketball player alive without question (for the record that was tough to write).

Additionally, LeBron's two co-stars Wade and Bosh, have also looked impressive thus far. Wade has come into this season far healthier and has looked sharper overall, and both are making more than half of their shots from the field (50.6% and 54.7% respectfully). Last night typified the Heats offensive efficiency, with  Bosh shooting 10-14 from the field and notching a seamless 24 points. Elsewhere, Ray Allen performed below his averages thus far this season, but overall has been exactly what everyone thought he would be: a knockdown three point shooter who can spread the floor (complementing Lebron and Wade), while also being a viable secondary scoring option when he plays with the second unit (even the terminator needs time to relax).

Either way its tough to see this team losing 4 out of 7 in a series against anybody. The only question now is how this team stays motivated going forward.

First Impressions of the Rockets:
They are undoubtedly an entertaining team. They have skill in some key positions (Lin, Harden, Asik- quick side note, don't sleep on Omer Asik I thought they were crazy when they signed him but he's legit), and some solid role players (Patrick Patterson, Carlos Delfino, and Chandler Parsons). Delfino and Parsons give them size and shooting ability, while Patterson gives you some solid post moves and decent enough rebounding. They have an exciting backcourt but I did not see a lot of harmony between the two, both are doing a great shot creating shots for their teammates. Harden is averaging 4.5 assists (a full two above his career average) and Lin is averaging 6.5 (2.3 above his career average). However, I look forward to seeing them improving each others game instead of merely taking turns running the offense for a possession.