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5 Storylines For the Miami Heat-Cleveland Cavaliers Matchup

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By @blackirishpr

Storylines For the Miami Heat-Cleveland Cavaliers Matchup

LeBron James v Dwyane Wade
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We all know that the hype machine has been in full effect for the Christmas clash between the Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat ever since the NBA released its 2014-15 schedule. So, in advance of the game, we put together the five main storylines leading up to the matchup.

5. The Copied Theory

Cleveland Cavaliers v New York Knicks
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5. The Copied Theory

Cleveland Cavaliers v New York Knicks
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Kevin Love speaking on the Cavaliers having their brother's back as they go to South Beach shows that forming a Big Three and adding Miami castaways were not the only things that they borrowed from the Heat’s four-year run. Erik Spoelstra used the “Band of Brothers” concept when LeBron returned to a heartbroken Cleveland in 2010.

The AmericanAirlines Arena won’t be a tenth as hostile.

4. The Reception

Miami Heat v Cleveland Cavaliers
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4. The Reception

Miami Heat v Cleveland Cavaliers
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Everyone has chimed in on the type of reception that LeBron James should receive once he arrives in Miami. And, for the most part, both teams agreed that he should be applauded for all of the things he brought to the city. But, after that, the boos should rain down consistently.

3. Rivalry Renewed

Cleveland Cavaliers v Miami Heat
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3. Rivalry Renewed

Cleveland Cavaliers v Miami Heat
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A clear positive from LeBron James returning home is the revival of one of the most entertaining rivalries of the pre-Big Three 2000s.

In 22 matchups, James has averaged 29 points, eight assists and six rebounds per game compared to Wade’s 28 points, seven assists and six rebounds per game, with the Chosen One’s Cavaliers holding a 13-9 advantage.

2. Can They Find Animosity?

Miami Heat v Cleveland Cavaliers
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2. Can They Find Animosity?

Miami Heat v Cleveland Cavaliers
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With the Miami Heat sitting three games under .500 and struggling to find balance, it will be interesting to see if the organization can get its players to feel enough bitterness and animosity on the court -- for James -- to shake off last night’s pitiful loss and end Cleveland’s three-game winning streak.

1. The Other Third

LeBron James Chris Bosh Miami Heat
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1. The Other Third

LeBron James Chris Bosh Miami Heat
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It all started when Chris Bosh said that he had not spoken to LeBron James after he left, then continued when he warned Love that it would be “extremely difficult” to play with the Chosen One. Next, James acknowledged that Bosh was not amongst the former teammates he’s kept in touch with.

The question is, will Bosh rush back for the matchup after missing six games? Coach Spoelstra expects him to be out. Bosh says, “We'll see tomorrow."

Richard Nurse is a writer for www.RantSports.com. Follow him on Twitter @blackirishpr or add him to your network on Google.

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