Miami Heat Weekend Recap: Miami Controls Its Playoff Destiny

The Miami Heat enjoyed a perfect weekend, winning both of their games against the Blazers and the Wizards, 142-82 and 119-107 respectively. Against the Blazers, the Heat triumphed by a franchise-record 60 points, a game that saw six Miami players scoring in double figures. With eight games left, here are some observations on what the Heat must do as the playoffs loom.

Play for the 6th Seed in the East
As it stands, Miami is just 0.5 games behind the Indiana Pacers. Avoiding the play-in tournament will allow their players to rest more, avoiding two extra games and a grueling series against either the Celtics or the Bucks. The Heat are not intimidated by the Celtics or the Bucks, but their chances of advancing increase dramatically if they can secure an easier matchup in the first round. Miami has matched up well with the Cavs this year, winning the season series 3-1, with two of those games being blowout wins. With upcoming games against the New York Knicks, the Sixers, and the 6th seeded Indiana Pacers, the Heat should view these games as must-win and develop a playoff mindset for the final eight games of the season.

The Rise of Terry Rozier
Over the last five games, Terry Rozier has played like his old self, averaging 18.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game while shooting 45% from the field and 34% from three. Rozier is becoming increasingly comfortable in Miami’s scheme, hitting eleven three-pointers in his last two games alone, both wins for the Heat. Despite a rocky start, Rozier is proving to be an important contributor to the Heat’s offense, offering a consistent scoring threat from the point guard position, something they have lacked since Goran Dragic.

Miami Has Playoff Depth
It’s no secret that the Heat have battled injuries all year. There have been times when Herro, Jaquez Jr., or even Bam have been unavailable, making it challenging for Miami to establish continuity in their starting group. However, the Heat’s additions and development have allowed other players to step up. Players like Haywood Highsmith have had huge games for the Heat, establishing himself as a solid rotation piece over the last five games with averages of 12.6 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. Thomas Bryant has also been an important contributor, averaging 10.4 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. This isn’t even accounting for the contributions of Patty Mills and Nikola Jovic, who have been solid contributors. Miami has the opportunity to field one of the deepest rotations in the playoffs, with a group of players they can rely on.

As the Heat make their final push, they must balance addressing health issues while maintaining a laser focus on treating these games as playoff games, as favorable seeding will ease their path in the playoffs.

Check out LifeWalletSports.com to get connected with all of our NIL athletes and partnered brands