With the top seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs on the line, things got pretty physical when the two rivals met at the American Airlines Arena. However, the Heat maintained their composure, turning up their defense in the second half and securing the victory.
"This is what the postseason is all about," LeBron James told reporters after the game. "Both teams struggling to score offensively, and defensively, two very good defensive teams. It's a possession game. That's what happens in the postseason. The game slows down. Not many fast-break points. You've got to work for every attempt, work for every shot."
With three of Miami's four remaining games against lesser teams, their chances of winning the top spot in the east are pretty good right now.
LeBron put up another impressive performance against the Bulls, finishing with 27 points (game-high), 11 rebounds, and 6 assists. Dwyane Wade also played well against Chicago, putting up 18 points and 5 assists.
Chris Bosh didn't suit up against the Bulls - who were without Derrick Rose, but it really didn't matter.
Dexter Pittman and Udonis Haslem made the most of their elongated minutes, finishing with a combined 10 points and 17 rebounds.
The Heat have had their share of problems since the All-Star break, but they're finally getting back on track. Their defense is once again one of the best in the NBA, holding the Bulls to 36 percent shooting from the field on Thursday. Miami's role players are also starting to step up their play, putting up decent numbers in their last few outings. As long as they keep it up, they should be fine come playoff time.
David is a Miami Heat fan that has followed the team for 16 years. Follow him on twitter @davidkingwriter and check out his blog.
Sources:
Associated Press, "LeBron James, Heat notch key win against Bulls"
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