The Miami Heat and the Indiana Pacers face off for Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals as the series is tied 2-2 and only one available spot for the NBA Finals. If you can't watch or listen to the game, check out the live scoring updates as the Heat and Pacers look to stand just one game from the championships.
Already, as expected, the headlines are turning against the Heat. They are the defending champions, so they are expected to win. Is there pressure o the team? Is their confidence shot? Are they worried that they can't get consistency from their key players? These are questions that can only be answered at the end of the series. However, the Heat are fighting through it and remaining confident.
"We have a great locker room of Alpha competitors and so they take this very seriously," said Heat coach, Erik Spoelstra. "We're playing against a worthy opponent and if we don't play well, they beat us. If they don't play well and we impose our identity, we beat them. That's what this is all about," he added.
If you're the Heat, you have to like your chances. You have the best player in the world on your side of the court and a pretty healthy team and bench that can step up any time a starter struggles. With the likes of Ray Allen, Norris Coles and Chris Anderesen, the Heat can fill any gaps lacking on offense and defense. Heck, even Mike Miller has seen his few minutes of action that have allowed him to briefly shine in the playoffs.
The Pacers are a very gritty and hungry pack. Having talent is one thing, but when talent lacks and hunger fills in, it's a very strong potion. Like Spoelstra said, when the Pacers lack efficiency and the Heat run the shot, Miami clearly shows how overpowering they can be. However, when the Pacers are in charge, things can quickly get ugly for the Heat, who had the best record in the regular season.
Click here to follow the live scoring updates as the Heat and Pacers play Game 5.
