The Miami Heat topped the Cleveland Cavaliers who were without the services of LeBron James by a final of 99-84 on Saturday.
James was rested by his head coach due to playing 45 minutes a day earlier. This was the first game missed by the former Heat star this season. Without James on the court, the Heat were able to get a quick lead easier and hold onto it throughout the night.
While many fans in the building may have been looking forward to seeing James in action, they were treated to a solid game by the Heat. The fans also got their voices heard with a loud "LeBron is tired" chant during the fourth quarter of play. James did not react to the chant which was clearly heard on the television broadcast.
The win moved Miami ahead of Cleveland by percentage points in the Eastern Conference. The Heat are now tied for the top spot in the East with the Indiana Pacers at 12-6. Miami is also a strong 10-3 at home after struggling at AmericanAirlines Arena in the 2014-15 season.
No one starter stood out for Miami in what was an all-around team win. 11 different players saw time on the court for the Heat with Tyler Johnson nearly leading the team in minutes played. Johnson came off the bench for 19 points in 30 minutes. Johnson also had five rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block.
As a team, Miami shot 54 percent from the field in what was a very efficient effort. The Heat also out-rebounded the Cavaliers 41-36.
The Heat will look to make it three wins in a row when they host the Washington Wizards on Monday.
