Miami Heat Playoffs Roundtable: Philly/Toronto Round 2 Preference- Eric’s Take
For me, this one is Philly. I feel like overall, the Raptors aren’t the better team here but I think Philly is a better matchup for the Heat based on the intangibles.
Eric’s Take (@FrittsWrites) – Philadelphia 76ers
The Sixers just seem like they are in a bit of a free fall and if they can get past this pesky Toronto team, they would be the better matchup against Miami. Miami has home court against either one and it’s a tough place to play in the playoffs for anyone, but it might be even a little harder for one James Harden.
He enjoys the nightlife and there is none better than in Miami. He’s already looking like he’s half a step slower and might be another full one behind if he doesn’t discipline himself off the court as well.
On top of that, the players don’t seem to have the cohesion that Toronto does. Nick Nurse is the better coach, although Doc Rivers is less of a slouch than people give him credit for.
Toronto is plucky and long. They would be disruptive to the Miami offense more than Philadelphia would.
The Miami Heat don’t need any more problems, already dealing with Jimmy Butler and Kyle Lowry missing time. It feels strange wanting to play the team that was up 3-1, but if they scrape by, this might be the perfect matchup.
The Heat are the low drama team and sticking it to the media circus that’s going on in Philly would just be fitting.