The Miami Heat are set to face the Brooklyn Nets on Friday night for the second time in less than two weeks, having moved on from the lengthy Jimmy Butler saga. The Heat traded Butler to the Golden State Warriors on Wednesday, acquiring Andrew Wiggins and Kyle Anderson in return.
Heat’s Recent Performance:
Miami has had a tumultuous season with Butler appearing in only 25 games, averaging 17 points per game, and facing multiple suspensions. The Heat are eager to integrate Wiggins into their starting frontcourt alongside Bam Adebayo, who has been in excellent form, averaging 23.6 points in his past five games. Adebayo scored 17 points in the Heat’s nine-point win at Brooklyn on January 25 and added 18 points in a 108-101 victory at Philadelphia on Wednesday. Tyler Herro’s 30-point performance on Wednesday helped Miami secure their fourth win in six games following a stretch of eight losses in 12 games.
Key Players:
- Bam Adebayo: Averaging 23.6 points in his past five games.
- Tyler Herro: Contributed 30 points in the recent win against Philadelphia.
- Andrew Wiggins: Averaging 17.6 points this season and set to make his debut for the Heat.
Nets’ Recent Performance:
Brooklyn has struggled at home, winning just one of their past 13 home games. After snapping an 11-game home skid with a 99-97 win over the Houston Rockets on Tuesday, the Nets were handed a 119-102 loss by the Washington Wizards on Wednesday. Brooklyn allowed the Wizards to shoot 54.3% from the field and 46.5% from 3-point range. Keon Johnson has been a bright spot for the Nets, scoring 25 points in the recent loss and at least 20 in four of his past seven games.
Key Players:
- Keon Johnson: Averaging over 20 points in four of his past seven games.
- Cameron Johnson: Returned from an ankle injury and contributed 17 points in 25 minutes against the Wizards.
Matchup History:
Miami has won both previous meetings with the Nets this season. With their improved recent form and the addition of Wiggins, the Heat are favored to win again. However, Brooklyn will be looking to bounce back and put up a strong fight on their home court.
