The Miami Heat defeated the Orlando Magic 99-92 on Saturday thanks to big games from Chris Bosh and Mario Chalmers.
With Dwyane Wade out for the a fifth straight game due to a hamstring injury, the Heat needed a big effort from Chalmers once again. That need was only increased by the fact Norris Cole also was out of commission. Cole who dislocated the middle finger on his left hand in the last game could miss more time going forward.
Chalmers ended up with 24 points to go along with eight assists and five rebounds in 33 minutes. The guard also picked up a steal and could end up keeping the starting point guard job even when Cole recovers.
Bosh continued his excellent season with a double-double consisting of 32 points and ten boards. Bosh also blocked one shot and was 4-6 on his three-point attempts. The big man had struggled a bit as of late but was dominant in this game.
Shannon Brown got his first start of the season and contributed seven points. Brown did very well defensively and the Heat were +10 with him on the court. It is possible Brown could see another start in the next game with the Heat still shorthanded.
Miami was out-rebounded 44-33 and Orlando also won the battle of points in the paint. The Heat were able to come away victorious mostly due to their efficiency on three-point attempts. In this game, Miami was 12-26 on treys and even better in the first half. This was a welcome surprise for the Heat as the team has struggled from the perimeter most of the season.
Miami will be right back on the court on Sunday for a home game against the Charlotte Hornets.
