King James and his Cleveland Cavilers came to Miami and got dethroned 86-81. Miami stepped up its defense and controlled the tempo from the opening tip to the last inbounds pass of the game. The new look Heat were impressive and made fans believe that the season is not over.

Pat Riley says that since Dwyane Wade is out with a dislocated shoulder, Miami has to become more of a defensive team. That's exactly what they were against the Cavs. They held them to only 38 points in the first half. They completely shut the Cavs bench down, and held Le Bron to only 29 points.

The Wade-less Heat were methodical and deliberate on offensive. Walk the ball up the court, throw it into Shaq, if no double team comes, Shaq dribbles twice and puts up a shot. If the double comes, Shaq throws it out to the perimeter and the ball gets passed around until a open shooter is found. It's very boring to watch, but get used to it because that's how the rest of the season is going to be until Wade gets back.

Through three quarters, Shaq was the only Heat player scoring consistently. Finally, in the fourth, other players started to contribute. Gary Payton and Walker chipped in with some nice assists, Alonzo Mourning had 15 points and Pocket Fulla Posey had some key baskets. Jason Kapono, who did his best impression of me through the first three quarters, going 1-11, started to hit some shots in the fourth. He hit a couple of deep jumpers and then nailed a deep three in the corner. He finished with 17 points.

Tomorrow the Heat will be in New York to face the Knicks. I will be there, live and in person along with BBF owner and president, Brian. You know, for someone who hates the Knicks, Brian sure attends a lot of their games. This will be his second of the year. If anyone is interested, we will be signing autographs for 30 minutes before the game in front of Section 349.