Though I exploit series stats better and more than most, the fact Brooklyn won all four this year does not faze me. In fact it is all the motivation Miami needs to blow them out.

The Heat went 1-3 in the regular season against Boston and 0-3 against Chicago in 2010-11, then eliminated both in five-game playoff series.

In 2011-12, Miami again went 1-3 against Boston during the regular season, then ousted the Celtics in a seven-game Eastern Conference finals.

Three of the four losses were by a point. Miami off back-to-back championships has not real statements to make during the regular season. And if they were to get a bit more motivated it would be to Indiana, San Antonio, perhaps Oklahoma City, but not the Nets.

New Jersey, a team of wily veterans knew they would be measured against Miami. But what is the best way for Miami to eliminate any confidence the Nets go? Destroy them. Now the ageing team had one day off following an emotional win on the road.

Sure Miami is a bit too rested, but I will take the much more rested and talented team laying just seven any day.