The Miami Heat finished their exhibition schedule which has a 5-3 record, and yes it has not been for any not enough trying. Meanwhile, the Bulls went undefeated.
Perhaps, this is actually the most despicable thing about Miami's early games: On the three games the Heat lost, we were looking at beaten by double-digits, the largest on the Brooklyn Nets (86-62).
In case that was not enough to convince you something is with a lack of the Heat's repertoire, here's another: Miami lost its second of two meetings towards the Nets by 21.
It's simply my take, but the new-look Nets will not be quite inside the same conversation as Chicago.
Still, the usual understanding compels die-hard Miami fans to lose the anemic performance by saying "it's just preseason."
Baloney.
I don't think a spat can be achieved that suggests Heat players didn't desire to win. They did. They each do. That is certainly what makes them champions.
LeBron James and also the Heat are facing unnerving NBA history
Defending champions typically win the opener. In truth, as outlined by NBA.com, only four teams didn't work to win the initial game in defending their titles since 1980. However, a frightening group of circumstances await the warmth.
Let's be perfectly clear here: LeBron James carries a large order to fill through the 2013-2014 NBA season, as far as "firsts" have concerns:
James could become:
- The first one to win three straight MVPs since Larry Bird managed it with all the Boston Celtics (1984-1986).
- The first to win three straight Finals MVPs since Shaquille O'Neal did so while using the Los Angeles Lakers (2000-2002).
- The first to win five total MVPs because great Michal Jordan accomplished it while using Chicago Bulls.
In other words, with that form of pressure on his shoulders, LeBron is required a great season and a lot of contribution from his supporting cast. Fit: Will be the other Bulls nearly the task? The short fact is an unequivocal yes.
Low number of fast. The challenge is actually they are able to remain healthy and face formidable rivals inside East. It's simply a case of time before they face the Nets again and Brooklyn is relying on doling out exactly the same results from preseason.
Finally, the Heat have to overcome mental fatigue so that you can three-peat. The emotion in the banner-drop and ring ceremony is sufficient to require a player off their game.
It presents a kind of pressure that may be challenging stay in check. Turning rid of it at tip-off if the confetti stops falling, the lights stop flashing and the music stops playing is a challenge that usually works in the visiting team's favor.
