Scorching Heat

   It's 11 wins and counting for Miami, who dispatched LeBron's old team last night in a 109-105 win. In a stretch that's seen LeBron distance himself from the field in the MVP race, and Dwyane Wade start to get his form, the Heat are on a tear that doesn't look to end any time soon. 

   Miami has been able to get it done all sorts of ways during this run. We've seen them grind it out against the Lakers and Rockets. They've held off late runs from Cleveland and OKC. And they've demolished playoff teams in wins versus the Bulls and Clippers. The Heat can win any way possible because the have the most versatile man in the league in LeBron. 

   We know all about the streak of 30-point games and we've heard way too many MJ comparisons at this point. It's just incredible how much of a "pick your poison" he has become. He opened the streak with seven 30-point games, but in the last four games where he's scored under 30, LeBron has recorded at least a double-double. So it's either allow the King to score 30 or surrender a double-double...or hold him under 20 and allow a triple-double. How'd that work out Philly? 

   It hasn't mattered that Wade is losing a step, or that his Ray Allen and Shane Battier have been cold, or that Chris Bosh has been erratic. All that matters is that the Heat have LeBron Raymone James and that makes them the best team in the NBA. Nothing says MVP like leading your team in scoring, assists, rebounds, and steals while having the best record in your conference. 

   So how long can this run continue? After what should be a stroll at home versus Sacramento, the schedule toughens up. The Grizzlies come to Miami and will try to grind it out against the Heat. Their size inside with Marc Gasol and Zach Randolph give Memphis an edge and Tony Allen provides a potential Wade stopper.

   Next, Miami visits MSG, trying to get their first win over the Knicks. While the 'Bockers have struggled recently, Carmelo, Chandler and Co. have given the Heat problems this season. And, if Miami is somehow able to skate through until March 10th, they play the Pacers in what will be a matchup of the East's two best.

   This seems to be the new normal in the NBA. The Heat are winning without scrutiny and LeBron is making a 27-8-7 line look easy. Unless your an opposing team or a devoted LeBron hater, all you can do is enjoy the man's work with a basketball.