The Heat's physicality in Game 2 didn't bother every Sixers player.
"I think this is the first time where it's been let go a little bit more, which has been good. I enjoy it," said Ben Simmons, who recorded 24 points, nine rebounds and eight assists in the Sixers' 113-103 loss. "I love competing against guys like that, who you know want to hit each other and knock each other down, which is good."
When you're a 6-10, 230-pound bruising version of a point guard, that type of play would definitely appear to fit your style.
Chalk Simmons up as the exception and not the rule for the Sixers, although the entire team knew the Heat were going to punch back after a lopsided Game 1.
"Obviously, they were very physical," Markelle Fultz said after Tuesday's practice. "I don't think that was like something we were shocked by. We knew they were going to come out more physical. That was one of the emphasis they had coming in."
"Honestly, it was what we expected them to do," JJ Redick said. "We didn't expect things to be as easy as that second half was in Game 1. They're a championship organization with a lot of pride. That was expected. So we have to kind of move on and go under the assumption that that's how it's going to be the rest of the series."
If that's the case, this Sixers team with limited playoff experience outside of a few veterans better get adjusted in a hurry.
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The Sixers were clearly affected by Miami's increased defensive intensity on Monday night. They shot just 41.7 percent from the field (19.4 percent from three-point range) and committed 15 turnovers. More importantly, they allowed the Heat to knock their entire offense out of rhythm.
"I think, too, it wasn't just about physicality," Redick said. "I think a byproduct of that, and probably part of their strategy, was if you're physical you're going to foul. The game becomes choppy and the game is played at their pace. We have to figure out a way to play the game at our pace."
The Sixers know getting the game on their terms means being stronger with the ball, setting better screens and cutting harder to the basket. However, perhaps the best way to counter the Heat's extra physicality is by simply embracing the defensive pressure.
"Honestly, I think it can help us a lot because with team pressure we can just be able to attack," Fultz said. "If we get to the rim, we have great athletes and we have great shooters. So get to the rim."
