Miami Heat

Dwyane Wade's playoff brilliance hits new high, but suddenly Heat need even more

Published May. 7, 2016 9:45 p.m. ET

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Andre Vergara

Dwyane Wade's rejuvenation has been one of the most talked-about stories of the NBA playoffs, and the 34-year-old Miami Heat star keeps adding to the narrative.

Wade went off for 38 points Saturday in Game 3 against the Toronto Raptors, hitting 13 of 25 shots, 4 of 6 on 3-pointers and all eight free throws, to go along with eight rebounds and four assists.

"I took it upon myself to do a little bit more," Wade said.

What Wade is doing rivals the performances of guys several years younger than him, and "Father Prime" is carrying the Heat the way many people didn't think he could anymore.

Maybe most remarkable is how well Wade is shooting from 3-point range: He's hitting 72 percent in the playoffs (8 of 11), after not making a 3 for four months during the regular season!

What's his secret? Maybe it's the special pants.

However, Wade's best in Game 3 wasn't enough, as Kyle Lowry lifted the Raptors to a 95-91 win. Wade even ultimately took the assignment of guarding the All-Star point guard, and Lowry hit a dagger over Wade. Both players scored 29 after halftime.

"Kyle hit some daggers," Wade said.

But the bigger concern was a knee injury suffered by Miami center Hassan Whiteside, which leaves the Heat needing even more from Wade. It's unclear how long Whiteside will be out.

"Guys have to step up," Wade said. "Nobody can be Hassan Whiteside. ... We have to figure out a way."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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