The Miami Heat sleepwalked through the final 24 minutes on Friday night at the Palace of Auburn Hills, but because of a strong first half, they still cruised to a 15-point win over the Detroit Pistons. The Heat nearly coughed up a 30-point halftime lead to the 76ers just a week ago, and a similar apathy set in on Friday against Detroit. Fortunately for Erik Spoelstra, the Pistons were nearly as woeful on offense which helped Miami keep a comfortable lead despite quarters of 13 points and 16 points.
Dwyane Wade led all scorers with 24 points, hitting 10 of 19 from the floor to pace Miami in the first half. LeBron James added a double-double scoring 17 points and dishing 10 assists. On defense, Miami forced 21 turnovers as the Pistons were sloppy and could not capitalize on Miami's poor second-half shooting. Riding a four-game winning streak, the Heat now head to Oklahoma City for a Sunday showdown with the Western Conference's best team.
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