Dwayne Wade had a Merry, Merry Christmas enjoying a win over the Los Angeles Lakers. He scored 40 on hot shooting from the field. Without Shaq in the lineup the Heat needed the offensive punch from their star guard. No one could bring shame to Wade's game on the magnificent holiday. His performance was a sight to see like lighted decorations on houses. Leading Miami over the Lakers for most of the game, Wade shot 12-20 FG (15-16 FT), adding 11 assists, 4 rebounds, and 4 steals.
No one in the Lakers' starting lineup or bench scored more than 16 points. Kobe couldn't find his touch nor strategy to stop Wade. The 101-85 triumph was sealed in the final 3 minutes of play as Lakers defense tried to double-team Wade, therefore leaving Miami teammates wide open. When a guard like Jason Kapono can capitalize by sinking a couple three-pointers in the 4th quarter then you know the game is wrapped up. The Heat did have an advantage since both Lamar Odom and Chris Mihm were out with injuries. Shaq may of been sidelined, but that didn't prevent him from cheering his team on and whispering words of encouragement to his superstar teammate.
Everyone thought it was going to be a one-on-one battle between Wade and Bryant, but it turned out to be one-man show. Seeing how easily 'Flash' distributed the ball to teammates the Heat should feel comfort in knowing he is willing to do whatever it takes to help them win rather than be a ball hog. If he's hot of course he'll take more shots, but that won't interfere with his top priority. With the win the Heat have pulled within a game of .500 at 13-14. They trail Washington and Orlando in the Southeast division.
The performance from a key veteran has risen. My hat is off to Zo as his defensive prowess continues to one of the team's strenghts. Mourning has compiled consistent numbers in Shaq's absence, although guys like Jason Williams and Antoine Walker must step it up a notch and give the Heat another reliable, consistent scorer. I expect Wade to finish the season as one of the top 3 scorers in the league.
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