Game Preview
The Miami Heat and Indiana Pacers are set to clash in an intriguing Eastern Conference showdown. Both teams have been trading wins and losses recently, with the Heat carrying a one-game winning streak and the Pacers looking to bounce back from their latest defeat.
On the season, the Heat have been hovering around a 53% win rate, averaging nearly 115 points per game while allowing just under 109. Their offense has been fueled by a shade above 45% shooting from the field and an impressive 79% mark from the free throw line. The Heat have also been crashing the boards for almost 46 rebounds per contest while dishing out 26 assists and forcing over 9 steals.
Recently, the Heat have been heating up, going 6-4 over their last 10 games and averaging nearly 122 points during that stretch. They've been knocking down shots at a 46% clip and grabbing 49 rebounds per game, relying on a balanced attack with 26 assists. However, turnovers have been an issue, coughing up the ball 15 times per game over their last 10 outings.
The Pacers, meanwhile, have been trading wins and losses throughout the season, sitting just under 50% in the win column. They've been scoring at a torrid pace of 119 points per game behind an impressive 49% shooting from the field. The Pacers have also been crashing the glass for 43 rebounds and dishing out 29 assists per night.
Over their last 10 games, the Pacers have matched the Heat's 6-4 record, though their offensive numbers have dipped slightly to 116 points on 49% shooting. They've been grabbing 44 boards and continuing to rack up 29 assists, but turnovers have been an issue, giving the ball away 12 times per game.
With both teams trading punches and boasting potent offenses, this matchup could come down to which team better protects the ball and controls the boards. The Heat have been red-hot shooting of late, while the Pacers will look to continue their prolific scoring pace. An entertaining, high-scoring affair could be on tap in Miami.