Hornets Crush Heat 96-80, Still Trail Series 2-1

Thanks to a dominant third quarter that included a 18-0 run, the Charlotte Hornets picked up their first win of their series against the Miami Heat. The Hornets defeated the Heat 96-80 Saturday. Charlotte's win snaps a 12-game playoff losing streak.

The Heat trailed by as many as 24 and struggled to score after putting up at least 115 points in the previous two games this series. The Hornets, meanwhile, had six of their eight rotation players score double figures. The Heat turned the ball over 14 times, against the Hornets' four. Had the Hornets not intentionally taken a shot clock violation with one second left, they would have matched the NBA record for fewest turnovers in a game. 

Frank Kaminsky had four points in the previous two games, but went off for 13 third quarter points. He finished with 15 points and six rebounds. Marvin Williams had a double-double with 12 points and 12 rebounds. Kemba Walker was just 4 of 19 from the field, but finished with 17 points and seven assists. Jeremy Lin came off the bench to drop 18 points. 

The Heat shot just 33.3 percent. Four starters had double figures, but it wasn't enough. Luol Deng was hot early, but cooled off and finished with 19 points. Dwyane Wade had 17 points and seven boards. Hasaan Whiteside had a double-double with 13 points and 18 rebounds. 

Game 4 of the series is Monday in Charlotte. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. ET. 

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