Heat Push for Playoff Position
The Miami Heat have won two straight games and sit just 3.5 games out of the fifth seed with 24 games remaining, according to the Hochman, Crowder & Solana podcast. With Norman Powell, Tyler Hero, and Bam Adebayo all healthy, analysts argue they're "not a play-in tournament team, but could be top-6 seed contenders." Tyler Hero's contract year performance could see his next deal exceed $15 million per year.
- The team's recent victories to build the two-game winning streak came against the Atlanta Hawks in a 128-97 blowout and a 136-120 win over the Memphis Grizzlies. In his return from a rib injury, Tyler Herro scored 24 points against the Hawks. - Their upcoming schedule includes crucial matchups against Eastern Conference rivals, with games against the Milwaukee Bucks and the Philadelphia 76ers, a team they are directly competing with for a playoff spot. - Over his last 20 games, Norman Powell has been a significant offensive contributor, averaging 21.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.6 assists. In the recent victory against the Grizzlies, he scored 25 points. - Bam Adebayo has been a consistent force for the Heat, averaging 20.6 points and 10.1 rebounds over his last 20 appearances. In a recent win against the Pelicans, he posted a team-high 27 points, 14 rebounds, and 4 blocks. - The Miami Heat currently have a 66.67% implied probability of making the playoffs. - As of late February, the Heat are second in the Southeast Division with a record of 31-27. - Tyler Herro has been productive in his limited games this season, averaging 21.9 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.7 assists. - Analyst predictions suggest that for the Heat to have a successful 2026, it would involve a second-round playoff appearance and potentially trading for a superstar in the offseason.
