The shorthanded Cavs, drew first blood against the Heat, though Miami wasn’t very far behind with a McGruder three. Miami demonstrated positives from the very beginning, showcasing an explosive and confident Josh Richardson as well as a ferocious James Johnson.
Cleveland’s defense was weak against Miami as scored six of their first nine points in the paint. Additionally, Cleveland leaned heavily on Kevin Love for the brunt of their offensive attack, though Frye and Smith contributed as well. The Cavs did not attack the paint whatsoever, instead choosing to run their offense from behind the arc. Unfortunately for Miami, they were very effective.