The NBA Playoff schedule shows two Game 3's going down Friday evening as the Chicago Bulls play the Miami Heat in the United Center while immediately followed by the Golden State Warriors hosting the San Antonio Spurs as the second round of basketball's postseason continues.
Friday evening's action begins with the Heat and Bulls as their series is currently tied 1-1. The anticipation was killer. After so much talk about Derrick Rose's return, he was ruled out on Friday along with Luol Deng and Kirk Hinrich. Many questions surround his return, but when you think about it, even if Rose isn't 100%, wouldn't his presence on the court make the Bulls a better team? Chicago has found a way to score game after game prior to Game 2 where the Heat stopped them at just 78. The Bulls, however, managed to defeat the Brooklyn Nets in the first round and that seemed like a miracle.
Game Time: 8 p.m. ET
Where to Watch: ESPN
The Heat will look to take the 2-1 series lead Friday night. The last time they were in Chicago, their 27-game winning streak was snapped. You think LeBron James has forgotten that? Look for the Heat to try and silence the Chicago crowd that is hungry to watch Miami fail and see their Bulls rally to victory.
Following the Bulls/Heat game, the young Warriors take on the veteran Spurs. San Antonio might be in trouble because this game will be at the ORACLE Arena. The Warriors came out gunning at the AT&T Center in Texas, imagine what they'll do in front of their home crowd? The Warriors have the more talented team, that's a fact. The reason why the Spurs are the favorite is because of their experience.
Can the Spurs turn up their defense? How much more can they ask from Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker and Tim Duncan? It seems like the Warriors blow by these guys or pop back and take the perimeter shot as they please. The math is simple if the Warriors are hitting their outside shots, the Spurs will be in trouble and will have to score over 100 points to earn the victory. Then the question becomes, do the Spurs have enough offense? Let's see what these veterans bring to the table.
Game Time: 10:30 p.m. ET
Where to Watch: ESPN
