Haslem, Heat burn Minnesota

Eddie Jones added 18 points and six rebounds for the Heat, who regained the Southeast Division lead after Washington fell to Toronto in overtime. Miami now leads the division by one-half game.

James Posey had a great floor game with 16 points, seven rebounds and six assists, while Jason Williams and Shaquille O’Neal each chipped in with 15 points for Miami.

"We knew it would be a tough game," said Haslem. "We knew they would make a push but we maintained our intensity and focus."

Kevin Garnett scored 22 points and 20 rebounds for the Timberwolves, who lost for the fourth time and five games. Mark Blount tallied 18 points and rookie Randy Foye had 10 points but shot just 4-of-15 from the floor.

"We fought our way back but the deficit was too deep," said Garnett. "Every time we made a run, they made a run."

The Heat used a stifling defense to take control early and led 25-14 after the opening 12 minutes. Miami extended its advantage to 12, 47-35, by intermission.

The Wolves fought back a bit in the third quarter. Craig Smith’s tip-in cut Miami’s lead to four but Posey answered by draining a three to cap the scoring in the third quarter with Miami on top, 64-57.

The Heat then put the game away with a 9-2 run to start the final frame. Haslem capped the burst with a layup to give Miami a comfortable 73-59 edge with 9:53 left.

Minnesota never seriously threatened the rest of the way.

Game Notes

Alonzo Mourning scored four points and passed Glen Rice for first place on Miami’s career points list (9,252)...The Heat are 15-21 as the visitor this season...Minnesota is 20-15 at home this season.