Sixers Heat Game 2 Preview

On Saturday afternoon, the Sixers showed that they can hang with the Heat. Better yet, they showed that they have the ability to beat the Heat. Tonight in Game 2 the Sixers will look to prove to themselves and the rest of the league that they can take down the big three.

In order for the Sixers to have any chance tonight, they have to do a lot of the same things that they did in Game 1. One thing that is crucial to the Sixers' chances tonight is getting off to a hot start. The Sixers jumped out to an early lead in Game 1 and after the first quarter led by 11 points. If the Sixers can find a way to again jump out to an early lead then that gives them a better shot of dealing with an inevitable Heat offensive run.

When that the run comes the Sixers need to do a better job of slowing the big three. In order to stop the Heat's top scorers I think it is crucial that the Sixers give more time to Evan Turner. Turner is healthy and is a better option right now over a struggling Andre Iguodala. Iguodala played very poorly on Saturday going 2-7 from the field with only 4 points. Although Turner is not as good a defender as Iguodala, he is healthy and will be able to contribute more offensively.

Tonight's X-factor is going to be Thad Young. Young led the Sixers with 20 points in Game 1 and I expect him to have an even bigger game tonight. Young's solid defense and overall athleticism should earn him some extra minutes. The Sixers did a good job of getting Elton Brand the ball in the opening quarter on Saturday but need to do a better job of getting him looks throughout the game.

I think the Sixers can win tonight if they get a balanced offensive attack and play solid defense. The Sixers need to utilize their bench and give time to their top defenders. Tonight is a must win, and if the Sixers want to win this series they need to win tonight plain and simple.