As expected, both James and Wade return to their more typical numbers, shooting 3-7 and 8-10 free throws respectively. The rebounding advantage also shrunk, 45-41 in favor of Miami despite a 17-10 advantage by Chicago on the offensive rebounding side. The Bulls continue to struggle shooting the ball in the playoffs, going 28-82 (34.2%) and a horrific 3-20 from 3 point land. If the Bulls weren't going to score, they needed a lockdown from their defense. But this night, the Bulls took one on the chin...or literally, Asik took one from Wade.
Without Asik in the game, the Bulls defense proceeded to give up 8 points and lose home court advantage. Miami got a boost from the return" of Udonis Haslem, who poured in 9 quarter points, and gave them an edge that they have been lacking most of the season. Should we be worried? Not necessarily. Both teams are fairly talented in their respective areas, so this wasn't much of a surprise. Here's what to look for in Game 3.Bulls points in the paint: Rose had limited opportunities at the rim, thanks to Miami's excellent collapsing shell. Additionally, Rose, Boozer and Deng went a combined 0-12 from 3-9 feet. Don't expect to see that number in Game 3. Bulls rebounding:The Bulls have had more shot opportunities created by their rebounding. Expect this trend to continue.Bulls 3 point shooting:They aren't quite reliant on it as most teams can be, but when they fall in love with it, it can be a deadly relationship. If Deng or Rose have to take more than 5 three pointers in a game, it's not a good sign. Udonis Haslem:He's just recently returned to action, and despite a great 3rd quarter in Game 2, it remains to be seen if he can continue to play at the same level despite the time between games. It usually takes players at least 2-3 weeks to get their game conditioning back. Surprise contribution:Boozer is playing at home in front of his family. Can we expect a more aggressive performance by Boozer in the 1st quarter?Statistics:Apparently 76% of the teams that win Game 3, when a series is tied 1-1 go on to win the series. Go Bulls!Hoopdata box score:
http://www.hoopdata.com/boxscore.aspx?id=310518004PopcornMachine game flow:
http://popcornmachine.net/cgi-bin/gameflow.cgi?date=20110518&game=MIACHI PopcornMachine box score:
http://popcornmachine.net/cgi-bin/boxscore.cgi?date=20110518&game=MIACHI
http://www.hoopdata.com/boxscore.aspx?id=310518004PopcornMachine game flow:
http://popcornmachine.net/cgi-bin/gameflow.cgi?date=20110518&game=MIACHI PopcornMachine box score:
http://popcornmachine.net/cgi-bin/boxscore.cgi?date=20110518&game=MIACHI