Coming off a 105-86 victory for the Miami Heat in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference semifinal series, there is a significant opportunity for a defining moment in Game 4. Both teams will face off in their next matchup during the Monday night NBA slate.
Here at a few bold predictions for Monday’s Game 4 matchup involving the Knicks and Heat.
3. Knicks Are Held To 100 Or Fewer Points
With limitations in perimeter shooting, the Knicks faced challenges in Game 3 operating when the Heat got more aggressive, overloading the strong side to make life in the half-court more challenging for Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle. Expect more of the same unless the Knicks get bold with lineup combinations that have yet to be used.
Unless the Knicks manage to get hot from 3-point range, the Heat have the necessary personnel to continue to execute at a high level defensively. As a result, New York will be held to 100 or fewer points for the second consecutive game.
2. Jimmy Butler Scores 35+ Points
During the Heat’s first-round series against the Milwaukee Bucks, Butler averaged 37.6 points per game while shooting 59.7 percent from the floor and 44.4 percent from deep. He has yet to hit the 30-point mark in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.
NBA NEWS & PLAYOFFS: Miami Heat & New York Knicks Updates
Butler could be primed for a big scoring performance with a complete game after returning from an ankle injury. It’s difficult to envision him not seizing the opportunity to send a significant message to the Knicks by winning on the Heat’s home floor with a chance to take complete control of the series.
1. Heat Take 3-1 Series Lead
With Game 4 being played on the Heat’s home floor, the odds are favorable to achieve a victory, which would put them up 3-1 in the series. Butler’s play has made him the lone superstar-level performer in the matchup, which goes a long way in winning a home playoff game.
NBA NEWS & PLAYOFFS: Miami Heat & New York Knicks Updates
It’s difficult to bet against the Heat not continuing to win the chess match when being coached by Erik Spoelstra with a more versatile roster at his disposal. There aren’t too many directions the Knicks can reasonably go in terms of approach for adjustments.
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