Miami Heat Kick Off Four-Game Stretch Against Playoff Contenders With Win Over Knicks

Anthony Pasciolla | Apr 2, 2024

Mar 31, 2024; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier (2); Credit: Reggie Hildred-USA TODAY Sports / Reggie Hildred-USA TODAY Sports

The Miami Heat (42-33) found a much-needed victory over the New York Knicks (44-31) on Tuesday evening, 109-99.

The victory came thanks to guard Terry Rozier, who finished the night with 34 points and five rebounds on 66.7 percent shooting and 8 of 11 shooting from the arc. Despite spending less than a full season with the team, the former Charlotte Hornet is having no problems fitting in.

This win was crucial for the Heat's postseason positioning, as it kicked off a four-game stretch against playoff contenders in a strong rhythm. Their next matchup comes against the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday, where they will take on reigning MVP Joel Embiid. The superstar center returned for the first time since January on Tuesday in a win against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Embiid will likely remain on a minute restriction to ease him back into the rotation, but shouldn't boost the Heat's confidence.

Coach Erik Spoelstra and his team will follow the matchup against the Sixers with a following evening game against the blazing Houston Rockets. They are making a push for the Play-In Tournament thanks to the emergence of sophomore guard Jalen Green. Rockets coach Ime Udoka won Western Conference Coach of the Month for March with a 13-2 record.

The intense span of games doesn't stop until facing the Indiana Pacers on Sunday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse Arena. This is arguably the most important matchup because the Pacers are half a game ahead of them in the standings. The Heat could remove themselves from the Play-In Tournament with a win, which guarantees a playoff spot. Despite fighting out of the Play-In all the way to the NBA Finals last season, security is a top priority for the team.

Anthony Pasciolla is a contributor to Inside The Heat. He can be reached at ampasciolla@gmail.com or on Instagram @anthony.pasciolla