Looking at tonight’s Miami Heat versus Brooklyn Nets matchup

The Miami Heat will finish off a four-game home stand when they host the Brooklyn Nets on Friday night.

The Miami Heat (18-16) are coming off of an 107-89 victory over the Orlando Magic, and have won seven of their last ten games. In Tuesday’s win over their interstate rivals, the Heat were led by Josh Richardson, who scored 20 points, grabbed seven rebounds, and dished out five assists.

Hassan Whiteside, who hadn’t played since November 28, returned from injury; he finished with seven points and eight rebounds in his first game back. For the Brooklyn Nets (12-22), they’re coming off of an 128-113 Wednesday night loss to the New Orleans Pelicans, and have lost their last three games.

This game will be the second of a four-game season series between the Heat and Nets, with the Heat winning the first meeting on December 9 in Mexico City. Goran Dragic led the team with 20 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals. However, Tyler Johnson also had a great game with 20 points, 4 rebounds, 1 assist and 1 block.

As far as injuries are concerned, both teams will be missing some key players. Dion Waiters (ankle), James Johnson (foot), Justise Winslow (knee), Okaro White (foot), Rodney McGruder (leg) are all still out for the Heat. D’Angelo Russell (knee) and Jeremy Lin (knee) are out for the Nets, with Caris LeVert (hip) listed as questionable.

And unfortunately, both James Johnson (17 points and 7 rebounds) and Winslow (15 points and 6 rebounds) were major contributors in the team’s victory in Mexico City.

Currently sitting eighth in the Eastern Conference, the Heat are desperately trying to turn a corner and go on a run. If they manage to string together some wins, they may all of a sudden find themselves in fourth place, with the 19-14 Detroit Pistons currently occupying that spot.

However, in order to do that ,the Heat have to handle their business against teams they’re supposed to be better than. In other words, beating a struggling Nets team would be a step in the right direction.

The good news is Whiteside, who didn’t play in the last matchup, should be able to make a solid impact against this Brooklyn roster.

Next: Erik Spoelstra, Miami Heat are still figuring out their rotations

Tip off is scheduled for 8 PM ET.