It may take a little while for the Heat to gel (not pictured).
Tonight in Boston, quite simply, was a mess.
On offense, the Heat had absolutely no game-plan, no way to attack to attack the Celtics.
Dwyane Wade played what could be his worst game of the year.
Chris Bosh wasn't even in double-figures scoring (which may never happen again).
And yet, Miami was only down by 3 points with just over a minute left.
Be afraid rest of the NBA, be very afraid.
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I was infinitely more concerned with the Heat's defensive approach than I was with offense.
These guys are world-class talents.
They'll figure out how to complement each other offensively.
That's not the issue.
My question heading into the game was simple: Will this team have the WILL to play consistent team defense, every night???
The answer: appears to be yes.
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While Wade, LeBron, and Bosh are all proven offensively, they all LOVE playing defense.
You can see the JOY this team takes in cutting off passing lanes, taking charges, and trying to run out the other way.
That's going to be this team's biggest strength: transition.
When it's going well, no one is going to be able to run with the Heat (not even the Suns).
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Look at the opponent.
The Boston Celtics are the most cohesive unit in the NBA.
They have a dominant point guard, who is distributing to four sure-fire Hall of Famers in KG, Shaq, Pierce, and Allen.
This team has played together for years (with the exception of Shaq who is a place-holder until Kendrick Perkins returns).
They were within a game of winning the NBA Finals last year.
It was in their house, one of the most historic and intimidating venues possible.
The Heat played like garbage for 3 quarters, and were within 3 points with a minute left on the road.
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Sure, the Heat are 0-1 in the record books.
Losing is never fun.
But Dwyane Wade played an AWFUL game, and Miami JUST lost.
How many times could you say that in the last five years?
It was Wade at peak performance, or no chance.
Not anymore.
This team won't match the 72' Dolphins for perfection, but I wouldn't want to play them in January.
