NBA Finals Game 4 Thread

Don’t look now hoops fans, but we may have a series on our hands. Former Sixer Jimmy Butler went off in Game 3, racking up 40 points, 11 rebounds, and 13 assists, accounting for the second-highest Game Score in the Finals since Basketball Reference started keeping the stat in their database. That epic performance propelled Miami to a 115-104 victory, cutting the series deficit to 2-1. (Meanwhile, the front office that decided to let Jimmy walk and bring in Al Horford instead is still in charge in Philadelphia. Sigh.)

Not only do the Heat now have the emotional lift of knowing they can beat the Lakers, but they will also get All-Star center Bam Adebayo back on the court tonight. Unfortunately, Goran Dragic will not return after giving it a go in warmups earlier tonight, but Bam should give Miami a huge lift.

I’m interested to see how LeBron James responds after eight turnovers in Game 3 and walking off the court with 10 seconds left.

Regarding that Game Score stat mentioned in regard to Butler above, LeBron has the top mark from his Game 6 performance in the 2016 Finals, so he is fully capable of roaring back and putting on an all-time show himself. Or this could be the moment when Father Time finally wounds the King. Either way should make for a fun night.

Follow along in the comments as either the Lakers take a 3-1 lead or Miami knots the series at two games apiece.

Who: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Miami Heat, Game 4
Where: ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, Orlando, FL (The Bubble)
When: 9:00pm ET
Watch: ABC