The Miami Heat and Toronto Raptors are set to face off at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario, on Friday, February 21, 2025, at 7:30 PM ET. This matchup features two teams with different trajectories this season, making it an intriguing game to watch.
Miami Heat
- 2024 Record: 25-28, 9th in Eastern Conference
- Key Players: Tyler Herro (G), Bam Adebayo (F/C), Kyle Lowry (G), Caleb Martin (F), Nikola Jovic (F)
- Strengths: The Heat have a solid defense, allowing only 110.7 points per game, which ranks third in the NBA. They have been effective at forcing turnovers, averaging 13.6 turnovers per game.
- Challenges: The Heat have struggled offensively, averaging 109.8 points per game, which ranks 24th in the NBA. They have also had issues with consistency, particularly on the road.
- Key Departures: Jimmy Butler (recently traded to the Golden State Warriors)
- Key Signings: Andrew Wiggins, Kyle Anderson, Davion Mitchell
Toronto Raptors
- 2024 Record: 17-38, 13th in Eastern Conference
- Key Players: Scottie Barnes (F), Fred VanVleet (G), Pascal Siakam (F), Jakob Poeltl (C), Immanuel Quickley (G)
- Strengths: The Raptors have shown flashes of potential with Barnes and VanVleet leading the scoring. They have a solid power play, converting at a 21.6% rate.
- Challenges: The Raptors have struggled defensively and have had difficulty maintaining leads. They are currently on a two-game losing streak.
- Key Departures: Bruce Brown, Kelly Olynyk, Mitchell Robinson (recently traded)
- Key Signings: Brandon Ingram (recently acquired, currently out with a sprained ankle)
Match Details
- Date: Friday, February 21, 2025
- Time: 7:30 PM ET
- Venue: Scotiabank Arena, Toronto, Ontario
- Broadcast: ESPN, TSN
Team News and Lineups
- Miami Heat: The Heat will be without Dru Smith due to injury, with Tyler Herro expected to step up in his absence. Bam Adebayo will start in goal.
- Toronto Raptors: The Raptors will be without Ulrich Chomche for the season due to injury, with Jakob Poeltl expected to take on a larger role. Scottie Barnes will start in goal.
Key Matchups
- Tyler Herro vs. Toronto Raptors Defense: Herro’s offensive prowess will be a major threat to the Raptors’ defense.
- Toronto Raptors’ Offense vs. Miami Heat Defense: The Raptors’ balanced attack will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Heat’s defense.
