GAME PREVIEW: Heat host Bucks looking to extend their winning streak

After an exciting overtime victory against the Dallas Mavericks on Sunday night, the Miami Heat have picked up back-to-back wins and improved their record to 7-7. They remain the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference, but the rival Milwaukee Bucks are surging into the standings. The Heat will host them this evening in a crucial NBA cup tournament game.

The matchup is a must-win if Miami wants to head to Vegas for this tournament, as the Bucks are in their bracket group. Milwaukee came out to a slow start to begin the 2024-25 season, but have won 7 of their last 10 games.

Giannis Antetokounmpo has been the anchor to their success, posting impressive stat lines on a daily basis. His co-star in Damian Lillard is also putting together another All-Star caliber year, although they still remain without the services of Khris Middleton.

Miami will attempt to stop the Bucks momentum and extend their current win streak to three consecutive games. Jimmy Butler has returned from an ankle injury that sidelined him for four games, and he’s reminded all of Heat Nation of what he’s capable of. Since his return, he has recorded over 60+ points in a two-game span and been a two-way force.

Butler’s leadership and aggression has led to wins. Keeping him engaged in the offense is going to be key in earning the victory tonight, as the best version of the Heat continues to come when he leads the way. Bam Adebayo will look to build on his 19/10 double-double effort the other night, as his continues to improve his 3-point shot.

Terry Rozier’s status has been upgraded to probable ahead of the matchup, who has sat out the last two games with a foot injury. It will be interesting to see his role if he returns to the Heat’s rotation, with recent speculation of becoming the team’s new sixth man off the bench and keeping the new starting backcourt of Tyler Herro and Duncan Robinson together.

Tip off is set for 7:30 PM EST, nationally televised on TNT.

Injury Report (at the time of this publishing):

Miami Heat:

• Terry Rozier (foot) — Probable
• Dru Smith (knee) — Questionable
• Josh Christopher (G-League) — OUT

Milwaukee Bucks:

• Taurean Prince (illness) — Questionable
• Giannis Antetokounmpo (calf) — Probable
• AJ Johnson (achilles) — Probable
• Marjon Beauchamp (hamstring) — Probable
• Khris Middleton (ankle) — OUT

Projected Starting 5 (subject to change):

Miami Heat:

• Tyler Herro, G
• Duncan Robinson, G
• Jimmy Butler, F
• Haywood Highsmith, F
• Bam Adebayo, C

Milwaukee Bucks:

• Damian Lillard, G
• Andre Jackson Jr, G
• Taurean Prince, F
• Giannis Antetokounmpo, F
• Brook Lopez, C

Broadcast Info:

• Tipoff: 7:30 PM EST
• TV: TNT & FanDuel Sports Network Sun (Eric Reid & John Crotty)
• Radio: AM 560 Sports WQAM & The HEAT Radio Network (Jason Jackson)
• Spanish Radio: WAQI 710 AM & The HEAT Spanish Radio Network (José Pañeda)

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