LeBron James, Dwyane Wade push Heat by Pacers

The Miami Heat took quality shots, finishing 37-68 (54.4%) from the field, including 10-18 (55.6%) from beyond the arc, in a 99-87 win over the Indiana Pacers. The Conference Semifinals now stand at 2-1.

LeBron James had another strong game, putting up 26 points on 9-14 shooting from the field and 7-9 from the free throw line. He tallied five rebounds and four steals also. Despite the loss, Paul George put up 17 points for Indiana on 5-13 shooting (1-6 on 3-point attempts), in addition to going 6-10 from the free throw line.

In a battle of strength against strength, the offense of Miami was able to have success against a defense for Indiana that was best in the league in forcing misses (46.0% opponents' eFG%), finishing with an eFG% of 61.8% in Game 3. Along with their sterling eFG%, the Heat connected at a rate of 55.6% from 3-point range in this game. For comparison, during the regular season they were 18-4 when they recorded marks above 55% and 40% in those respective categories. Conversely, the Pacers were 1-5 when they allowed their opponents to reach those percentages.

With a 2-1 series lead and Game 4 at home, Miami has a great opportunity to build upon its lead.