Heat getting complacent?

I know that this is practically an impossibility, with Riley coaching this team, but the Heat seemed to be playing under-inspired of late.

Just a general observation - and sure, they haven't had Shaq for a spell here (hyper-extended left knee - which I want to suggest is not a coincedence coming AFTER another bout with the Pacers. Tell me the last two times Shaq has missed games and I will point to the last team he played in both those recent incidents was in fact the Pacers. America's Dirtiest Team? Probably another topic for another time...).

3-3 over their last six and an underwhelming performance against the highly inspired, overly confident and re-surging New Jersey Nets on Sunday was what made me worry. Vince Carter continued to dominate the Heat whenever he plays them. Why? I have no clue.

Sure, we don't have Zo right now. And yes, we didn't have Shaq for two of those games (a win over the Raptors and a loss to the Cavs). But still, you get the feeling this team has kind of hit a wall at this point and needs to get back on track. They were completely overmatched against New Jersey.

And now, the Bucks lay in wait for the Heat. The same Bucks who are in the playoff hunt and are looking to make a statement. At least this game will be in Miami, where the Heat can get a little home cooking (mmmm, arepas...) and can hopefully find their swerve again.

The Heat have arguably one of the best benches in the NBA. But without Zo, they don't seem to be faring as well. Simien has performed very admirably in Zo's stead, however. We'll see what kind of signal Miami sends to the rest of the NBA - who is watching NJ gain ground on that #2 seed.