The Indiana Pacers (3-3) sported their new alternative uniforms as they edged the Miami Heat (3-3) 90-87 in a back and fourth match on Friday night.
The game was tied with two minutes remaining but some clutch free throw shooting allowed the Pacers to take the edge over the Heat. These two teams will be battling for some of the lower playoff spots in the East and although early in the season, this was a big game for both teams.
Chris Bosh had a big game for the Heat, notching a double-double with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Bosh also had two assists, one block and one steal, showing he can impact all parts of the game, not quite like LeBron, but the Heat are surely glad he is back healthy and competing hard. The only other players for Miami to score double digits were Goran Dragic with 11 and rookie Justise Winslow with 13. Winslow also added eight rebounds. Hassan Whiteside continued his good work in the paint with eight points, 12 rebounds and a big four blocks. The Heat lacked offensive depth and missed Gerald Green who is still out.
Indiana has taken nothing for granted so far this season and is grinding out every game, this time being rewarded with the W. Paul George has been playing with a chip on his shoulder and continued his work Friday night with 36 points, 12 rebounds, 3 assists, 3 steals and one block. Although it is early George is looking like an MVP candidate so far this season. George Hill added 12 points and four assists on clever 3-4 shooting from distance. Jordan Hill notched a double-double off the bench with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Monta Ellis had a quiet shooting night, going only 2-8, scoring only four points but he did dish a solid eight assists and grabbed four rebounds.
Both teams are off Saturday and get back into action on Sunday, when Indiana visits Cleveland and Miami hosts Toronto.
