NBA Playoff Prediction: 10 reasons Miami Heat will outshine the Philadelphia 76ers (Part-2)
Miami Heat 3 – Philadelphia 76ers 0
Despite of putting up a spirited performances, the Philadelphia 76ers have failed to outshine the Miami Heat this season. In all these games, the Sixers failed to
tame the Big-Three of the Heat.
In the first showdown on 27th October, the Sixers made a huge comeback and managed to bring down a massive 26 points deficit to single digits in the fourth
quarter. However, they eventually lost by 10 points. Although, the Sixers have haunted Miami on all three games this season, but they don’t seem to have the goods or the firepower to take down the likes of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.
Home-court advantage
The Heat might not carry the best home record in the league; however they are extremely dominant at home. Beating Miami at their own building in the presence of some
of the finest players in NBA is surely a very big challenge for the reeling Sixers. With the Heat holding the home court advantage due the higher seeding, they will definitely have an edge over the Sixers. The fans in the American Airlines Arena will provide
a massive support to the Heat, which will add more pressure on the visiting Philadelphia.
Playoff Experience
A team having more playoff experience definitely holds an edge in the post-season. Apart from Elton Brand, the Sixers will be carrying one of the youngest starting
line-up in the league. Brand and Andre Iguodala are the only two players above 25 years and a significant playing time on the court.
On the other hand, Heat has the advantage of some experienced players, who have carried the action into the playoffs a number of times. Six players in the Heat’s
line-up have reached the NBA finals whereas only two players from the Philadelphia went into the final stages of the postseason with most of them making their first appearance in the playoffs.
Streaking Miami Heat vs. Reeling Philadelphia 76ers
The Heat had a roller coaster ride in the last month of the regular season and won 15 games out of 18. Their impressive march saw them topple the Boston Celtics for
the second rank in the Eastern Conference. The determination of sealing the championship title is making Heat stronger everyday and they are showing no signs of retreat.
Conversely, the Philadelphia dropped seven games out of their last 11 meetings and have limped into the postseason. On the back of the current form, Miami will definitely
be having an advantage over Philadelphia in the seven game first round series.
Veteran Players
The Heat carry another big advantage of having the veteran players in the starting five and the bench as well. James and Bosh accompanied Dwayne Wade earlier this
season and later they procured a 3-point specialist Mike Bibby, further adding depth in their line-up.
Apart from Elton Brand and Andre Iguodala, the Sixers will be charging with a young squad.
James Jones and Mike Bibby
James Jones and Mike Bibby are two players who can sting an opposition anytime by their exquisite long range shooting. Although, Bibby is trying to pick up the momentum
since joining the team, his presence will be an big influencing factor as the Heat look to start the post-season in style.
Miami Heat is just a better team
Accompanied with all of the qualities, the Heat is just a much better side as compared to the struggling Philadelphia. Looking at both the teams, the Miami stands
more chances to win the first round series and are considered as the toughest contenders for the title fight in the East.
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