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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Miami Heat is having a strong Game 4 after their upset win in Game 3. Their defense has stifled the Lakers all-game, though the Lakers are still carrying a small lead through the third quarter. LeBron James had a hot third quarter after a disappointing first-half performance.

The role-players on both teams have shown promise. Markieff Morris has been a tad inconsistent but has had his big moments. So when Frank Vogel wanted to give Morris some quick sideline advice, Miami Heat forward Jae Crowder smelled something fishy.

Crowder went over to the sideline and joined in on the Morris-Vogel mid-game conversation. Morris tried to push him off as you hear Mark Jackson say ‘that’s legal’ as officials stepped over.

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This is a classic tactic many players do to try and deny opponents these quick sessions with their coach. However, many times players just sneak into timeouts and huddle, much to the opponents’ annoyance. Just ask Dwight Howard after what he did to the Denver Nuggets.

Miami Heat fighting back in game four?

USA Today via Reuters

The Heat are having a good Game 4. Abandoning the zone defense from games one and two has proven beneficial for the Heat, as the Lakers have struggled to dominate. More conventional NBA styles have been employed, slowing Anthony Davis down more than anyone. With AD neutralized, the Lakers, including LeBron, have struggled to dominate. However, this third-quarter performance has kept the game slightly in their favor.

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The score is 75-70 heading into the fourth quarter. The Lakers are unbeaten this season in games they have led going into the fourth quarter (55-0), so the Heat have an uphill battle. With AD and Bron finding their grooves back, it is that much harder.