Halftime Analysis: Heat vs. Pacers (Game 1)

I've said that the Indiana Pacers have been very "Dr. Jekyll, Mr. Hyde" throughout these playoffs.


Looks like the Blue Collar, Gold Swagger Crew is back on track after taking a 55-45 lead against the Miami Heat into halftime in Game 1 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals. The Pacers have seemed content to let LeBron James and Dwyane Wade get theirs while holding the rest of the team at bay. Combined, James and Wade have 26 of the team's points and they are the only ones in double figures. And even though the Heat are shooting 50 percent from the field, they're only shooting 18 percent from long distance.

Meanwhile, the Pacers are shooting 59 percent from the field and, more importantly, 66 percent from behing the 3-point line. Lance Stephenson and George Hill are lighting it up. Conbined, the Indiana duo have scored 23 points.

The one thing I'm watching for is Roy Hibbert's involvement in the second half. Hibbert has nine points so far and two rebounds. While fans may not be happy with the rebounds number, his points could easily be an igniter for Hibbert helping him play defense on the other end of the floor. Remember, it's all about confidence with him.

Miami will likely make the adjustment in the second half and attack the basket in the third and fourth quarters. Give LeBron or Wade the ball and let them penetrate. Miami needs to find a way to get to the line.

Enjoy the second half!