Wednesday, November 4, 2009

11/4 - Miami Heat vs. Washington Wizards Preview

November 4, 2009

VS.

Where: Verizon Center, Washington, DC
When: 7:00 PM EST
Television: ESPN

Starters

Washington Wizards (2-2)
PG - Gilbert Arenas
SG - Mike Miller
SF - Caron Butler
PF - Fabricio Oberto
C - Brendan Haywood

Miami Heat (3-1)
PG - Mario Chalmers
SG - Dwyane Wade
SF - Quentin Richardson
PF - Michael Beasley
C - Jermaine O'Neal

Miami will play their first divisional match-up of the season tonight in Washington, DC. With the Wizards acquiring G Mike Miller and G Randy Foye, more depth has been added to Miami's division rival. Washington is averaging 101 points-per-game and will look to push the ball and run up the score early. Miami will attempt to counter with forced turnovers and steals, which will aid their fast break game.

The Heat will have a greater chance of leaving the Verizon Center with a victory if they can hold the Wizards under the 100-point mark. So far, the Heat are 3-0 when holding opponents under 100 and suffered their first loss last night when they allowed 104 points to the Phoenix Suns.

The go-to scorers for each team will be G Dwyane Wade and G Gilbert Arenas, but the offensive battle will come from key contributors. Washington will use the perimeter threats of Foye and Miller, while Miami will toss F Quentin Richardson and F James Jones into the mix.

The tempo of the game will be essential to deciding the outcome. Miami has a shifty offense that can run the floor as well as run half court play sets. Washington is a team that enjoys a fast-paced tempo and thrives on scoring in bunches. Heat C Jermaine O'Neal will need to be effective in the post if the Heat want to establish any inside presence and create open jumpshots outside.

Injury Notice:

Miami G Daequan Cook will not be available for Wednesday's game as he is still bothered by a strained shoulder injury. This will hurt Miami's perimeter depth, but should not greatly affect their chances to win. Expect Jones to get playing time in replacement of Cook.

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