In the later stages of the game, the Miami Heat, although not as suppressed as in the opening, with scoring efficiency half that of the Bobcats, were still at a disadvantage, with the outcome never really in doubt. Wade gave it his all, merely preventing the game from becoming a blowout.
The two teams, just considering their on-paper strength, weren't in the same league at all. Not to mention the Bobcats had a complete tactical system, while the Heat, after O'Neal was traded away, lost their framework, leaving Wade to fight alone.
Additionally, tonight marked the Bobcats' season opener in their title-defense campaign, and everyone played hard, even the sluggish O' Neal, showing no mercy when attacking, refusing to give the Heat a chance for an upset.
