Changes in the Lineup Ahead of Game 3

MIAMI — Mike Brown made some adjustments for the lineup in Game 3.

With Miles McBride absent due to personal reasons—specifically a family death—Ariel Hukporti stepped back into the starting position, adding some height to the team.

This aligns with Brown’s earlier comments about adapting his strategy based on the opponent.

The Cavaliers had big players like Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley during the first game, prompting Brown to go with a larger frontcourt. In contrast, the Celtics had a smaller lineup, which led him to start McBride and move OG Anunoby to power forward.

Against Miami, Brown had to consider two formidable centers, Bam Adebayo and Ka’el Ware. He had previously given Hukporti the starting nod but left him out of the lineup in the last game.

Still, Brown’s confidence in Hukporti seemed shaky after Hukporti managed only ten scoreless minutes in a 115-107 loss.

Meanwhile, Josh Hart, who had missed the season opener and most of the preseason due to back issues, returned to play 29 minutes, contributing five rebounds, five assists, and two points.

In the last game, Hart was on limited minutes, playing just 19.

As for Precious Achiuwa, he didn’t get the chance he might have wanted against his former team. Released by the Heat before the season began, he’s currently a free agent after signing a non-guaranteed contract, just after moving into a luxe condo in South Beach.

The 26-year-old had expressed some dissatisfaction with his role last season with the Knicks. After a playoff setback, he hinted at a shift in mindset, stating, “I can definitely say my perspective on the game and the league has changed, starting this season.”

He had been hoping that his playoff experience might secure him a role with the Heat, but that didn’t pan out.

“What’s different about me now is that I’ve been to the playoffs almost every year of my career,” Achiuwa reflected before his release. “I’ve played a lot of playoff basketball and gained a lot of experience. Competing at a high level has helped me grow as a player.”