Live By the Steve Novak, Die By the Steve Novak.

Steve Novak: Not pretty, but effective.

When the Heat signed Ray Allen and Rashard Lewis over the summer, in addition to already having several world-class shooters, it was they who were supposed to win from the outside. But tonight, it was the Knicks doing the damage from deep, going 19-36 for threes in their 104-84 season opening win vs Miami.

The Heat's weakness on defense surfaced again... defending the three.  When faced with hot teams, their frenzied defense is it's own enemy.  This phenomena was in full effect tonight.

Nothing came easy for Miami.

The Knicks simply couldn't miss, and in the middle of it all for New York was Steve Novak.  5 of 8 from beyond the arch.  And the Knicks actually played defense.

The most promising takeaway for Miami: Rashard Lewis.  Can he be back?

Crappiest play of the night that summarizes how things went for Miami: During garbage time, Mike Miller grabs a defensive rebound and starts bringing the ball up court.  In a moment of gravely poor judgement, at half-court, he passes the ball toward Josh Harrellson.  Of course, Jorts (rightfully) never imagined anyone would ask him to advance the ball.  The ball zoomed straight out of bounds as Harrellson plodded forward.  Yes, you read correctly; an NBA player actually passed the ball to Josh Harrellson and expected him to dribble it.

Before the game, Wade announced he'd donate his game check to the relief effort.  At least something positive came from this night.


The idea of writing this blog was a lot more romantic when the Miami Heat looked like they were going to go 82-0.  Now, I realize that I need to sit through long, excruciating losses...... Like this one.

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