5.8.22

Jaden Rivers  

The series between the Miami Heat and Philadelphia 76ers is now 2-1 after a full team breakdown transpired with Miami last night.  During the 99-79 loss, only two Heat players had a field goal percentage of more than 45 percent; Jimmy Butler and his 33 points, and Pj Tucker’s four. Joel Embiid’s effect on the game was paramount. He finished with 18 pts on 5-for-12 shooting but Embiid at 70 percent effectiveness is enough to win a game or two when the Heat play at this level. 

The Trend began in Atlanta, during the series Atlanta shot better each game the series went on while the Heat shot worse. To think the Heat would have a collapse like this is an oversight, but Embiid changes the scope of this series. He’s an MVP candidate, their chances of winning go up considerably despite James Harden’s shortcomings. 

Embiid averaged 30.6 points with 11 rebounds and four assists on the regular season and 27 points with 14 rebounds and four assists vs the Raptors. He’s a force to be reckoned with, Embiid at Home as well provides even more issues to face. 

Nonetheless the series should be entertaining, Duncan Robinson hadn’t played this series and he’s bound to create offense. Tyler Herro and Jimmy Butler should have something to prove after Friday’s showing. 

The heat play Today, May 8th at 8pm on TNT.