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The Miami Heat are set to face the New York Knicks tonight in their third and final regular season matchup. So far, the Knicks have emerged victorious in both previous encounters. A win tonight would mark the Knicks' first series sweep against the Heat since the 1992-93 season.
Over the years, Miami has managed to sweep New York in the regular season series on seven different occasions. In total, the Heat hold a 66-73 record against the Knicks during the regular season, including a 37-32 advantage in home games and a 29-41 record on the road.
Miami Heat Adjusts Starting Lineup
With Andrew Wiggins listed as questionable due to a leg injury, the Heat had to shuffle their starting five for this crucial game. The projected starters for Miami include:
- G: Tyler Herro
- G: Duncan Robinson
- C: Kel’el Ware
- F: Andrew Wiggins (questionable)
- F: Bam Adebayo
For the Knicks, the expected starters are:
- G: Miles McBride
- G: Josh Hart
- C: Karl-Anthony Towns
- F: Mikal Bridges
- F: OG Anunoby
Injury Updates
The Heat are facing a long list of injuries with players like Alec Burks (back), Nikola Jovic (hand), and Dru Smith (Achilles) all ruled out. Additionally, Josh Christopher, Keshad Johnson, and Isaiah Stevens are unavailable as they are currently playing in the G League.
On the Knicks' side, star player Jalen Brunson is sidelined due to an ankle injury, while Ariel Hukporti is out with a knee issue. Pacome Dadiet and Kevin McCullar Jr. are listed as questionable and out respectively due to G League assignments.
Coach Erik Spoelstra on the Team's Struggles
The Heat have been struggling lately with a concerning seven-game losing streak. Head coach Erik Spoelstra addressed the situation, stating:
"Enough has been said in the locker room. But we have a certain standard of how we expect to play and compete, and we did not meet that standard. Meeting that standard doesn't always guarantee a win, but right now we are struggling to figure out how to win games."
Conclusion
With injuries affecting key players and both teams aiming to finish their season matchups on a high note, tonight’s game is crucial for Miami to break their losing streak and avoid a rare season sweep by New York.
