Two of the best teams in the East collide in a potential Conference Finals showdown. A late regular-season matchup between the top squads has all the makings of a fun-filled game. Furthermore, the possibility that they will meet again in the playoffs down the line makes it more exciting.
What’s up with the Heat?
The Heat are at the top of the East with a 47-24 record, winning their last two games over the Thunder and Pistons.
Miami’s success often relies on its defense. They are the best team in limiting opponents’ points (40.8) and fourth in total points allowed (104.8), all while being in the top five in defensive rating (107.5). When it comes to offense, their trump card is 3-point shooting. They are the top shooting team from downtown with a 37.4 clip. With guys like Tyler Herro, Max Strus, and Duncan Robinson, they bring all kinds of trouble for opponents.
For the matchup against the Sixers, they’ll be a little bit short-handed. Gabe Vincent (toe contusion) and Victor Oladipo (back) are out, while Caleb Martin (knee) and Jimmy Butler (ankle) are both listed as questionable.
What’s up with the Sixers?
The Sixers (43-27) are coming off a disappointing loss at the hands of the Raptors on Monday. Philadelphia’s James Harden and Joel Embiid were kept in check by Toronto’s defense late in the game. Harden had a chance to tie the contest but was whistled for an offensive foul in the closing seconds. As a team, the Sixers struggled in the fourth quarter, making just four baskets and committing seven turnovers. Embiid finished with 21 points on 30 percent shooting, on top of 13 rebounds, while Harden had 17 points, nine rebounds, eight assists, but was responsible for six turnovers.
With the loss, the Bucks (44-27) have retaken the second spot in the East. Nonetheless, one can argue that the Sixers are still in the midst of figuring things out with Harden at the point. Acclimating a star player often takes time and it will be interesting to see how the team continues to progress. Time is of the essence as the Sixers need to get their act together before the playoffs. Are Harden’s 22.9 points, 10.7 rebounds, and 6.8 assists enough to carry them deep into the postseason? A battle with the Heat can further gauge where they are.
Heat-Sixers matchup
The last time these two teams met was two weeks ago with the Heat taking a 99-82 victory. Butler and Herro had 21 points apiece, while Vincent started in place of Kyle Lowry and fired 16 points. Harden sat out that game and Embiid took on most of the scoring load with 22 points and 15 rebounds. Maxey chipped in with 17 but the Heat put the clamps on the Sixers in the fourth quarter.
The Heat have been masterful on the defensive end and the Sixers need a way to find better shots in crunch time. Harden would want to take a crack against Miami this time around, as well as bounce back from the game against the Raptors.
On the other end, if Butler sits out, expect Herro and Bam Adebayo to carry most of the offensive load. A clash in the paint between Adebayo and Embiid, two of the best big men in the league, is always a noteworthy matchup.
