The NBA regular season is winding down, and Friday night’s clash between the Miami Heat and the New Orleans Pelicans promises high-stakes action as both teams jockey for playoff positioning. Tip-off is set for 8:00 PM ET at the Kaseya Center in Miami.
Game Preview
The Heat (44-36) enter the matchup clinging to a spot in the Eastern Conference play-in tournament, and they’re looking to gain momentum with only two games left in the regular season. Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo continue to lead the charge, but the team’s inconsistency, especially on offense, has made every game crucial.
On the other side, the Pelicans (47-33) are fighting to secure a top-six seed in the Western Conference to avoid the play-in round altogether. Zion Williamson has been a force down the stretch, and Brandon Ingram’s return from injury could give New Orleans a much-needed boost.
Odds
According to oddsmakers, the Heat are currently listed as 1.5-point favorites, with the over/under set at 214.5 points. The slight edge likely reflects Miami’s home-court advantage and recent defensive form.
Prediction
This matchup figures to be a tightly contested battle. Miami will try to slow the pace and control the paint, while New Orleans looks to push the tempo and create fast-break opportunities.
Pick Against the Spread: Pelicans +1.5 Moneyline Lean: Pelicans Over/Under Pick: Over 214.5
If Zion and Ingram are both active and in rhythm, New Orleans has the offensive firepower to outpace a Heat team that has struggled to score in the half-court. However, expect a gritty, physical game typical of Miami’s style.
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