Miami Heat: 3 Takeaways From Win Over Cleveland

The final stat line says it all and, in this case, the numbers tell the whole story–32 points, 13-of-18 shooting, two rebounds, two assists and five steals.

Dwyane Wade had one of his best games of the season and it’s not coincidence that Miami followed suit. But it was still an atypical game for Wade, who has worn many hats during the season.

Despite his injuries, he’s had to fill a number of roles – scorer, facilitator, casual observer – and hasn’t been as consistent as he’d like to be. Still, his growing chemistry with Dragic, Whiteside and Luol Deng was on display against Cleveland.

It’s a shame that Chris Bosh‘s injury will likely keep Miami from making a significant impact in the playoffs, assuming they make it at all.

If they do’t make the postseason, it won’t be because of Wade, who can clearly still dominate when inspired to do so. He even unleashed this incredible highlight that has made the rounds by now:

While the play resulted in a blocked shot by J.R. Smith, it was the incredible athleticism and effort by Wade that was most remarkable. Between taking a back seat to James over the last three seasons and having ongoing injury issues, many have forgotten how incredible a player he is.

Last night’s performance shows he’s still one of the top shooting guards in the league, in the same conversation with James Harden and Klay Thompson.

Wade might not equal Monday’s production again this season but, for one night, it wasn’t about the future but rather a reminder of his brilliant, hall-of-fame-worthy past.

Next: Could a Playoff Battle Await?