The Heat’s first match at their American Airlines Arena home in the best-of-seven series saw them slow out of the blocks, as the Pacers led by as much as 14 points in the first quarter.
Indiana preserved their advantage midway through the second, extending the margin to 15 points, but it would be as good as it got for the visitors – as Miami stormed home to win 99-87, and jump to a 2-1 series lead.
LeBron James was pivotal for Miami, scoring 26 points, having seven assists and collecting five rebounds.
Dwyane Wade posted 23 points, while Ray Allen came off the bench to drain all four of his fourth-quarter three-point attempts to finish with 16 points.
The Pacers were led by Lance Stephenson, who chalked up a double-double of 10 points and 11 rebounds.
Paul George led the scoring for the visitors with 17 points, while Roy Hibbert (16) and David West (13) were the others in double figures.
Indiana’s three-point shooting was concerning, though, as they converted just six of 21 chances from range, with George (one from six) and Stephenson (zero from four) the notable culprits.
Heat hold home advantage in the series, with game four in Florida on Monday.
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