MIAMI _ Because of what follows, this is one the Miami Heat had to have.
Fortunately, the Cleveland Cavaliers arrived right on schedule.
Making it 16 consecutive victories over the Cleveland Cavaliers at AmericanAirlines, the Heat moved to a 126-110 decision Friday night at AmericanAirlines Arena to open a five-game homestand that follows with playoff-race challenges against the Toronto Raptors, Detroit Pistons, Milwaukee Bucks and Charlotte Hornets.
And it gets even tougher from there, with a four-game trip to follow to Oklahoma City, San Antonio, Milwaukee and Washington.
So after a few uneven early moments, the Heat took a 94-83 lead after the third quarter, on the way to their fourth consecutive victory, one shy of their longest streak of the season.
Sparked by the power of Bam Adebayo (17 points, seven rebounds), the versatility of Justise Winslow (16 points, nine rebounds, nine assists) and the shooting of Josh Richardson (20 points, 4 of 6 on 3-pointers), the Heat were able to hold their ground at No. 8 in the Eastern Conference on a night the Hornets and Orlando Magic remained behind with victories.
The Heat put it away on a seven-point possession _ yes, seven _ by Rodney McGruder midway through the fourth quarter. McGruder converted a 3-pointer, was flagrantly fouled by Kevin Love, made the ensuing free throw and then, with the Heat retaining possession, converted another three.
The Heat trailed 29-28 at the end of the opening period, with the game tied 57-57 at halftime, the third consecutive game the Heat found themselves in a tie at the intermission, having gone on in the previous two games to victories over the Atlanta Hawks and Hornets.
