Shane Battier gets chippy with David West (GIF)

Dec 18, 2013; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Heat small forward LeBron James (6) is pushed by Indiana Pacers power forward David West (21) during the first half at American Airlines Arena. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports /

The Miami Heat and Indiana Pacers entered Wednesday night with the two best records in the Eastern Conference. The 18-6 Heat are currently playing host to the 20-4 Pacers. These two teams have met once this season with the Pacers rallying to earn a home victory over the Heat.

The two squads met in the Eastern Conference Finals and gave fan quite a show. Although the Heat ultimately won the series (and went on to defeat the San Antonio Spurs in seven games in the NBA Finals to claim their second straight title), the Pacers proved they belonged as one of the elite teams’ in the NBA. The growth in an elite NBA player of Paul George throughout last season and especially in the postseason, was on display throughout the series. The under appreciated David West also finally got some of the respect he deserves.

The two teams look to be developing into one of, if not the, league’s best rivalry. When happens, things usually get a bit chippy when those rivals meet.

Well, things are starting to get chippy in Miami.

Battier fouls West /

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