WASHINGTON, May 12 (UPI) -- Dwayne Wade made up for the absence of Shaquille O'Neal Thursday night as Miami neared a series sweep with a 102-95 win over Washington.
The Heat claimed a 3-0 advantage in the best-of-seven series and can earn a spot in the conference finals when Washington hosts Game 4 Saturday night.
O'Neal sat out Thursday night's contest with a thigh bruise that has bothered him since the playoffs began.
Wade, however, scored 31 points -- 19 of them in the second half. He hit 14 of 27 shots, claimed nine rebounds and had six assists.
Trailing by eight early in the second half, Miami went on a 22-5 run to seize control. Miami built a 13-point lead in the fourth period before the Wizards cut it to three. But Miami then used a 9-2 run to end Washington's hopes.
Eddie Jones and Damon Jones both had 16 points for top-seeded Miami, which is unbeaten in seven playoff outings.
Washington was led by 21 points from Antawn Jamison and 20 from Gilbert Arenas.
The Wizards and Heat have met seven times this season and Miami has won every game.
