The Heat are the first team headed to the conference finals after a 99–90 win over the 76ers on Thursday. The final score didn’t indicate the gap between the two clubs in Game 6. Miami dominated the start of the fourth quarter, taking a 92–72 lead about halfway through the period and crushing any hopes of a Game 7. Jimmy Butler led the Heat with 30 points, while Joel Embiid and Tyrese Maxey each scored 20 in a losing endeavor for Philadelphia. Here are three thoughts on Miami’s decisive victory.
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The Heat’s Defense Belongs in the Conversation
Miami held Philadelphia to a 98.