Heat Take 3-1 Lead, Hold Off Knicks 109-101 for Game 4 Win

Miami came out with a strong defensive effort in Game 4, holding New York to just 19 points in the first quarter. The Heat were able to maintain a lead throughout the game, although the Knicks did make several runs to keep the score close. The Heat's defense was suffocating, and they held the Knicks to just 41.6% shooting from the field.

The Heat were led by Jimmy Butler, who had a team-high 27 points, 8 assists, and 7 rebounds. Butler, who has a reputation as a big-time performer in playoff games, was aggressive from the opening tip and consistently made big plays for the Heat. He attacked the rim relentlessly, drawing fouls and getting to the free-throw line. Butler's play helped set the tone for the game, and his ability to make big plays down the stretch was crucial for Miami.

Bam Adebayo also had a strong game for Miami, recording 20 points and 13 rebounds. Adebayo was dominant in the paint, using his size and athleticism to finish around the rim and grab key rebounds. He was a force on the defensive end as well, recording 2 blocks and altering several other shots.

For the Knicks, Julius Randle had a game-high 31 points, but he struggled from the field, shooting just 11-28. Randle, who was the NBA's Most Improved Player this season, has been the Knicks' go-to scorer throughout the series. However, he has struggled with his shooting and has not been able to carry the team as he did during the regular season. RJ Barrett also contributed 19 points and 6 rebounds for New York, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Heat's balanced scoring attack and solid defense.

One of the keys to Miami's victory was their ability to limit New York's three-point shooting. In Game 3, the Knicks hit 16 three-pointers and shot 50% from beyond the arc. In Game 4, the Heat held the Knicks to just 9-29 shooting from three-point range, which prevented New York from making any sustained runs. The Heat's defense was especially effective in the second half, as they held the Knicks to just 40 points over the final two quarters.

Another important factor in the game was Miami's bench play. Tyler Herro, who had been struggling in the series, came off the bench and had a solid game with 15 points and 4 rebounds. Goran Dragic also chipped in 15 points and provided the Heat with a spark off the bench. New York's bench, on the other hand, was largely ineffective, as they were outscored 32-18 by Miami's reserves.

With the win, the Heat took a commanding 3-1 lead in the series and were one win away from advancing to the second round of the playoffs. The Knicks would need to win three consecutive games to come back and win the series, which is a daunting task given their struggles in the last two games. The Heat, on the other hand, were looking to close out the series in Game 5 and avoid a potential Game 6 in New York.

The Heat have been one of the NBA's hottest teams since the All-Star break, and they have been playing their best basketball of the season in the playoffs. They have a deep and talented roster, with several players capable of stepping up and making big plays in clutch situations. Miami's defense has