Heat adapted faster than Indiana and look set to turn the screw

Miami Heat and LeBron James were back on top in Game 3 with a 114-96 victory, moving them 2-1 up in the Eastern Conference Finals with two of the next three games after this taking place in Miami’s back yard.

A decisive strategic decision to move pivotal player James to the post worked the trick with the Heat responding in style after such a disappointing finish at the AA Arena last timed when two late turnovers cost them the game.

That was road win number 23 from their last 24 visits away from Florida but it was the manner of their victory that would have pleased coach Erik Spoelstra most.

Miami were impeccable when it mattered, converting 24 of 28 free throws and matching the highest scoring output of a quarter of this season’s playoffs. They also managed to break their franchise playoff record for points in a half with a marker-laying 70.

The question for Game 4 is whether or not boss Frank Vogel has discovered in the last 24 hours a way to stop James’ new domain of attack.  Vogel openly talked after the game about the increased need to ‘double’ on James but too much focus on one player will only lead to new trouble.

However, after scoring 58 points in his last two games it’s understandable that the four-time MVP is at the forefront of the tactical preparations in Indiana.

Odds of 10/11 on Miami to record another win away from home giving up 2.5 points on the handicap seems more than fair considering that the Pacers will be feeling that they missed a big opportunity.

After securing a win in Miami and with consecutive home games ahead Indiana would have felt that a clear series lead was at their mercy but the fact they are going into this game behind their expectations may have caused serious damage.

Prices of 10/11 on their being over 184.5 points in the game appears generous. Totals of 205, 190 and 210 in the series offers great confidence in this market.

All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publication