On the Edge of History

For the Detroit Pistons, the end is nigh. The death knell has rung and mimics the tempo of a heartbeat. The Heat have their hands tightly around the defending Eastern Conference champions necks.

All they have to do is squeeze.

Time to end the reign of the Pistons. Time for the rise of a new power in the East, the Miami Heat.

Heat fans have been in such situations before - but none quite as sweet as this. They witnessed heartbreak last season in the playoffs, as a hobbled Heat team couldn't close the door on the Pistons. They even sat with jaws dropped back in '98 at the fatal Allan Houston shot that pushed the Knicks passed the Heat - in Game 5.

But this year is different. The Heat are healthier and have more talent than any other Heat team in their 18 year history. And they have potential hall of famers in Shaq, Alonzo Mourning and Gary Payton.

And they have Dwyane Wade.

Pat Riley has been noted as taking a softer, more laid back approach. Gone are the harsh tactics for motivation and excruciating practices. Yet, for all the reduction in his methods, Riley is having his finest coaching season in years.

Most did not foresee the mighty Heat being so mighty. They re-tooled their roster for this moment. And in obtaining this depth, they were chastised for tinkering with the chemistry of a #1 seeded team last season. The Heat also saw a coaching change, in mid-season, with Stan Van Gundy stepping down in order for Pat Riley to take over. Riley, with tears in his eyes, grabbed back the reins of this powerful chariot and steered it back on course.

Tonight, we get to see if all of this was worth it. Tonight, we get to see if all of the turmoil, sacrifice and substance will be able to cash in on destiny.

The Heat take a 3-1 lead to Detroit tonight and are looking to end their season. They have to kill the beast, slay the dragon. To do that, there has to be total annihilation.

What awaits, is the first ever appearance in the Finals for the Miami Heat. And quite possibly, the fruition of a dream, a simple parade, which has been promised over 10 years ago.

On the edge of history, there is simply a promise. Will it come to be? Tune in and find out, tonight.