The Miami Heat erased an early deficit with a stellar fourth quarter in their 118-96 win over the Chicago Bulls on Friday.
After one quarter of play, Miami trailed by eight points and it would stay behind going into the half. Chicago took a four-point lead into the locker room and this game looked like it would stay close throughout.
When the second half began, the tone of the game began to change. The Heat would go on to win the third quarter by seven points which gave them a three-point edge heading into the final quarter of play. From then on, Miami played on another level and put the game away with ease. The Heat ended up outscoring the Bulls by 19 points in the fourth quarter alone.
One of the biggest reasons for Miami's good night was Josh Richardson. The guard posted 22 points off the bench to go along with four assists. Richardson gave Miami 32 minutes of energetic and productive play. The value of Richardson in this win was clearly shown by the team being +14 with him on the court.
Hassan Whiteside completed yet another double-double with his 13 points and 16 rebounds. The center also set a career-high with two assists, and added three blocks to his NBA-leading total in that department. It was an all-around big effort for Whiteside, who continues to be one of the most productive big men in the game.
Joe Johnson had one of his better nights since joining Miami with 15 points of his own. Johnson also contributed two assists, three rebounds, and picked up four steals. Miami has only lost once since Johnson arrived.
The Heat will be back in action on Saturday when they travel to Canada for a game against the Toronto Raptors.
