The Miami Heat defeated the Charlotte Hornets, 108-101, at American Airlines
Arena on Wednesday. These are two teams battling for a playoff spot in the east
and it had that sort of atmosphere. This was tight throughout, as there were
eight ties and 11 lead changes, with neither team leading by more than 12
points. Miami took care of business in the fourth quarter, outscoring Charlotte,
27-15. Rebounding was a huge factor, with the Heat winning that battle, 46-39.
They also dominated the assists differential, winning that, 22-14. The Hornets
(28-36) have just four wins in their last 11 games and losses like this are
crucial to their pursuit of a playoff berth. Kemba Walker did all he could,
leading the team with 33 points and four rebounds. Nicolas Batum finished second
on the team, accumulating 16 points, seven rebounds and four steals. Marvin
Williams amassed 14 points, 12 rebounds, three assists and three steals. On deck
for Charlotte is a home matchup against the Orlando Magic on Friday. The Heat
(31-34) have now gotten their winning streak to three games, as they continue
their incredible run, now sitting within a game of the eight-seed in the east.
Dion Waiters led the team with 24 points, three rebounds and five assists. Goran
Dragic accrued 22 points, six rebounds and 10 assists. Hassan Whiteside recorded
a double-double, totaling 10 points, 15 rebounds, two steals and four blocks.
James Johnson was a nice spark off the bench, collecting 10 points, six rebounds
and five assists. Miami will look to keep rolling on Saturday in a home matchup
with the Toronto Raptors.
