MIAMI — The HeatGet ready for the semifinal matchup of their Eastern Conference against the Philadelphia 76ersErik Spoelstra understands that his team must prepare to face a group “totally different” than the one they played this year. This is due to the addition, former MVP James HardenTo the Sixers' lineup.
Spoelstra stated that Spoelstra “definitely changes the dynamic,” after Friday's practice. “You're talking here about an MVP player. “A guy who can manipulate and control the game. He can cause havoc, whether he is scoring, assisting, or manipulating defense.
This is the first time Harden has been acquired. He was purchased just before the February trade deadline. Brooklyn NetsHe will play for the Sixers against the Heat. Spoelstra is well aware that Harden and the Sixers MVP candidate can be slowed down. Joel EmbiidThis will help determine the winner of the series.
Spoelstra stated that “they have two men who really know how draw fouls and do this exceptionally well.” “So you need to have great discipline and focus but also not lose sight of your aggressiveness. This is the series that Spoelstra will be wrestling in.”
Heat center Bam AdebayoHe is excited about the upcoming battle against Embiid, and knows that the key to stopping them both is making sure they feel a defensive presence wherever they go.
Adebayo stated, “Execution is key to physicality.” “We know we can't be physically with two men who shoot the most free throws together.”
The Heat, who are always confident and outwardly confident, know that they have to keep their defensive principles intact if they want to win the series. This is especially true considering how Embiid has been playing this season.
Adebayo declared, “You're likely to have to twice him.” It's very simple. He just needs to get the ball out of his hands. He must not let him fall into a routine. He must think outside the box. He must pass even when he doesn’t feel like passing. These are the greatest things in my opinion.”
What's the best way to slow down Sixers big man?
Spoelstra stated, “One, I don’t have that answer right at the moment.” “Two,” Spoelstra said. It's not as if we can stop a man who is an MVP player. The important thing is to beat the Sixers. We have to be tough on the Sixers' main guys and do it consistently. Let's just keep the pressure on them and push them to their limits.
He's also extremely skilled. He is a man who can physically punish you and has tremendous finesse. He is a skilled shooter with a great shotmaking ability and deep range. He has an uncanny touch in the court. Then you have the added bonus of being able create and open shots for others, as well as being able draw fouls at any time if your concentration is slipping.”
Several Heat players were forced to miss Friday's practice. Jimmy Butler(right knee soreness). Kyle Lowry (hamstring), P.J. Tucker (calf), Tyler HerroNon-COVID disease Caleb Martin(ankle), were all out. Adebayo is optimistic that Lowry, who was out of Games 4 and 5, will be back. Atlanta HawksButler missed Game 5 of this Hawks series. Butler will be ready to play against the Sixers in Game 1.
Adebayo said, “I'm expecting them just to get healthy day-by-day, honestly.” They can go if they're able. If they can't, we have to go. You can't push back Game 1.”
