This was a game they absolutely had to win.
However, during the pre-game warm-up, the Heat Team also appeared particularly serious.
For them, securing this away game meant they would essentially be pocketing the victory, their desire to win was no less than that of the Cavaliers.
After the opening ceremony, the starting lineups of both teams were announced.
Heat: Dragic, Wade, Durant, David West, Big Gasol
Cavaliers: Irving, JR, Hansen, Tucker, Jokic
Riley was somewhat surprised when he saw the Cavaliers' starting lineup, so during the last three minutes of preparation time, he gave his players a categorical order.
If Malone insisted this lineup could win against the Heat again, then they would play until his mental defense crumbled.
Jokic jumped for the ball and won possession for the Cavaliers.
Irving went to the frontcourt and after a pick and roll with Jokic, tested his shooting touch but unfortunately missed.
