Los Angeles Lakers v Miami Heat (Lakers Lead 2-1)
The Lakers blew game three against an injured Heat, which gave Jimmy Butler some much-needed momentum going into game four. Butler also got back one of their superstars, C Bam Adebayo, to provide the frontcourt with some defensive presence. Despite the extra muscle, the Lakers proved to be too much for the Heat; the Lakers won 102-96.
The Heat had gotten a memorable performance from G Jimmy Butler for game three, but you could tell it took a toll on his body. Butler (22PTS 10REB 9AST 3STL 1BLK 43MIN) almost managed his second triple-double in a row, but he didn’t have the same energy as on Tuesday. Adebayo (15PTS 7REB 1AST 1STL 33MIN) played a solid game but was still not at 100%.
The Lakers were once again led by F LeBron James (28PTS 12REB 8AST 1STL 39MIN) who also got F Anthony Davis (22PTS 9REB 4AST 1STL 4BLK) to come back from his night off in game three to help dominate on both ends of the court. G Kentavious Caldwell Pope (15PTS 3REB 5AST) was a big surprise. The Lakers gained a huge contribution from tonight. He had been struggling to the point that he should’ve been taken out of the starting lineup, but in game-four, he made some huge baskets down the stretch. The Lakers also beat the Heat on the offensive glass, which led to many second-chance points for the Lakers.
The Lakers put another nail in the Heat’s coffin on Tuesday night, but the Heat continue to fight anyway. It would be a mistake to count Jimmy Butler out; he is ready and willing to steal another game.