In game 2 of the 2006 NBA finals the Dallas Mavericks crushed the Miami Heat. The Heat were up at one point because both teams were being careless with the ball and turning it over. Once the Dallas Mavericks took their time with their passing they were able to build a big lead on the Heat going into the half. Jerry Stackhouse helped build the lead with a three pointer, a four point play, and another three pointer going into the half. They continued to build on the lead after the half dominating the Heat in every aspect of the game. One could easily argue that Shaq was outplayed by Eric Dampier. Shaq was held to a career playoff low 5 points in the game. He missed several free throws and barely played in the second half. Even though the Heat were abused most of the game they made a small run at the end but it was cut short. The Heat did not make many adjustments in comparison to game one. The only adjustment they made was playing Alonzo Mourning more minutes, and that was because they were getting blown out so badly. In game three I expect the Heat to come with the same game plan which is to feed Shaq the ball and hope that his role players hit shots when he passes out of the double. It is a good plan but it will not work unless guys are making shots. I hope by then Riley has a backup plan in case guys are missing shots or the Heat will be swept. |
