After a heartbreaking collapse to lose game two, the Spurs were dealt the tough task of beating the Heat in Miami. Having been 8-0 at home in the playoffs up to this point, the Heat certainly had some confidence going into tonight’s game. The Spurs needed to establish an early lead and quite the Miami crowd. Fortunately, they were able to do just that as they started the first quarter with a historic performance. In addition, Kawhi Leonard had a career night on the offensive end. These combined performances allowed the Spurs to defeat the Heat at home by a score of 111-92, taking the lead in the series 2-1.
The game started out with both teams firing on all cylinders as they exchanged baskets. However, the Spurs continued to make shots, and then make some more. The Spurs shot 18 for 20 in the first quarter, a scorching 90 percent from the field. The Spurs scored a ridiculous 41 points in the first quarter and were led largely by Danny Green and Leonard. The Heat managed a solid offensive outing in the first quarter, as they scored 25 points. In the second quarter the Spurs continued their hot shooting, although they did come back to earth a bit. They still managed to score 30 points and extend their lead. Not only were the Spurs shooting the ball with high efficiency, they were making great passes and playing selfless basketball. The Heat continued their solid offensive play as they scored 25 in the second quarter. Going into the half the Spurs were up 71-50 and had a historic first half. They shot a record breaking 76 percent from the field. In the third quarter it was a completely different story as the Spurs offense became stagnant and the Heat defense really stepped up. Thanks to multiple three's by Rashard Lewis and Ray Allen, and some turnovers by San Antonio, the Heat were able to pull within seven. It appeared as if the Spurs were ready for another late game collapse. However, they were able to avoid what plagued them in game two as both their offense and defense stepped up. The Spurs were able to re-extend their lead and seal the game for a victory.
The Spurs had an extremely efficient game and won with record breaking fashion. Four players scored in double figures and Kawhi led them all with 29 points. This offensive outing was a career high for Leonard, who chose a great time to have a career night. The Spurs shot 59 percent from the field and 45 percent from behind the arc. Danny Green also had a career night as he scored 15 points and added five steals. When the Spurs offense is operating at such a high level it is nearly impossible to stop.
The Heat's offense was very solid at times, however; their inconsistencies on both sides of the ball really limited their opportunities. The Heat had four players score in double figures with LeBron James and Dwyane Wade scoring 22 each. Despite their combined 44 points they also had a combined 12 turnovers. As a team the Heat had 20 turnovers and only 17 assists. The Heat struggled getting production outside of their stars and the only other efficient scorer for the Heat was Rashard Lewis. The Heat, as a team shot 51 percent and 47 percent from behind the arc. Turnovers really limited the Heat's chances of making a comeback, however; they will need to improve on their defense as well.