The Boston Celtics will try to join the Oklahoma City Thunder in the NBA Finals as they play Game 6 tonight against the Miami Heat, in a possible series finisher.
The Celtics have rallied back to win the last three games, similar to how the Thunder roared back against the San Antonio Spurs. With the Heat's lazy style of defense, the Celtics have had the luxury of starting out hot or coming back in games.
They Heat also have issues on offense and have been handicapped by a struggling bench.
They have been able to come back in some games, but the Celtic veterans, Kevin Garnett and Paul Pierce have made big buckets at key points in the game. Most recently, Pierce hit a dagger three that game the Celtics breathing room with seconds left in Game 5.
Rajon Rondo controls the tempo on offense and always looks for the open player, but takes the shot whenever available. If this is really the last run for Garnett, Pierce and Ray Allen, then they are in good hands with Rondo.
Unlike the Celtics who pass the ball and look for the open player, Heat players pass the open shot when they get caught in their "hot potato" half court offense. No player wants to take a shot and they constantly pass the ball.
It would be understandable if the Heat held leads in the games and were trying to burn the clock, but they are usually playing catch-up basketball. Lebron James, Dwyane Wade and Mario Chalmers are the most consistent shooters in the team.
If they are wide open, then they should stop looking for players down in the post who are surrounded by Celtics. They are trying to create offense when there is nothing there.
Their defense needs to produce turnovers that can allow them to run with the ball. They especially need to chase after long rebounds, which allow them to push the ball upcourt.
The Heat are not built to run a half-court offense and they need to stop playing like a conventional basketball team. That is, if they want to win.
Game 6 will be in Boston tonight. Tipoff is set for 8:30 pm ET.
Questions? Comments? You can follow me on Twitter @frankie_swr
