Contrary to popular belief, I don't wake up planning to write or tweet or talk about Mavericks owner Mark Cuban. I really do feel like I have other things to do. But ignoring his persistent bullying isn't something I plan to do anytime soon, either.

MIAMI _ To appreciate the intensity of the Miami Heat in the wake of Monday night's road loss to the Dallas Mavericks was merely to gaze at the Philadelphia 76ers bench during the start of each half Wednesday night at AmericanAirlines Arena.

DALLAS _ As Nerlens Noel made his first move to get off the bench, the applause began to build and finally hit a crescendo as he was announced to the home crowd.

DALLAS _ At one point during his interview session with the media following Monday morning's shootaround at American Airlines Center, Dallas Mavericks coach Rick Carlisle had a grim look on his face.

ATLANTA _ Despite a nearly 70 percent field goal percentage through three quarters, the Hawks lost a 12-point lead and had to come from behind for a victory.

MIAMI _ The day began with a reference in the Indianapolis Star to the Miami Heat as an "inferior team." Because the record continues to deceive.