LeBron James and company face challenge against tough and physical Pacer side.
The Miami Heat have had it largely their own way so far in the NBA Playoffs this year. A 4-0 sweep of the Milwaukee Bucks and a 4-1 demolition of the Chicago Bulls has meant the number one seed in the Eastern Conference have barely got out of second gear in their quest to win the second straight NBA title.
Led by league MVP LeBron James, the Heat will be looking to continue their finesse style of play, scoring quickly and early, and will look to take advantage of the perimeter shooting capabilities of Mario Chalmers and Dwyane Wade.
Their one weakness is rebounding, for which they finished bottom in the entire league for, and is the way in for a physical Indiana side into this series.
Roy Hibbert is the man responsible with this task of being ruthless around the net when picking up both offensive and defensive rebounds, and could play a key role in the outcome of several games in what is projected to be a long series.
Averaging 9.6 rebounds already this post-season, Hibbert completely dominated All-Star Tyson Chandler during the Pacers playoff win over the New York Knicks, considered the driving force behind their 4-2 series win.
The same will be asked again against the Heat, as a matchup between him and Chris Bosh could play a pivotal role in who wins the battle of the paint during the middle quarters of games.
While Indiana will look to keep pace with Miami early on, the fresher, and more experienced Miami side will eventually come out as winners, but the Heat will have to work hard for a series win.
Prediction: Miami Heat 4 Indiana Pacers 3
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