Miami Heat vs Houston Rockets: Odds, Keys, And Players to Watch
The Miami Heat (43-22 and 1st in the Eastern Conference) are at home Monday to take on the Houston Rockets (16-48 and 15th in the Western Conference) at 7:30 pm. Miami, who now sits three games ahead in the Eastern Conference, are looking to keep the momentum up after coming off a, 99-82, victory over the Philadelphia 76ers on Saturday.
The Heat will look to extend its lead over the Eastern Conference and make a big push as we move closer to playoff time.
Players To Watch
Jimmy Butler will be one of the main players to watch for the Heat. Butler, who is coming off a 21 point performance against the 76ers, continues to perform at the highest level he can for Miami. The Heat look to him to provide on both ends of the court and he will be a factor against the Rockets as well.
Bam Adebayo will be another player to watch out for against the Rockets. Even though he had a quiet game against the 76ers, only six points and ten rebounds, he will still be the man controlling the paint on both ends for the Heat.
According to reports, there might be a chance that Victor Oladipo will participate in this game, however, we will see if he suits up in this upcoming game. Oladipo should provide help for Miami out front and along the wings.
Officially listed as questionable, again, you’ll just have to wait and see if he goes against the Rockets.
The Miami Heat are still home, now protecting a three-game lead over the Eastern Conference. They’ll look to build on it, facing Houston’s Rockets Monday.
Must Read. This Version Of Bam Adebayo Takes Miami Heat To Another Level. light
Keys to the Game
1. Hold The Lead: Miami had a 20 point lead over the 76ers, but ended up winning the game by 17 points after allowing them to climb back in it a bit. Miami will need to jump out to an early lead, which should help them coast to a win over the young Rockets squad.
2. Limit Turnovers: Miami had a total of 14 turnovers against the 76ers, which resulted in 16 points for Philly. Miami will need to make sure they move the ball, make the easy play, and not make any sloppy mistakes.
3. Limit Fouls Committed: Miami had a total of 19 fouls as a team against the 76ers. Allowing the Rockets to hang around too long would be the only thing that would allow them to snatch a victory, so keeping them off the line and out of early bonus territory will be helpful.
They got away with it on Saturday in Philly, finding themselves in the bonus with nine minutes left in the third, but it’s best never to put yourself in the scenario in the first place.
Miami Heat vs Houston Rockets Odds And Prediction
Odds And Information Provided Courtesy Of WynnBET
Moneyline: MIA -1400 HOU +800
Spread: MIA -15
Total: 226.5
Prediction
Miami is heading into this game with a three-game lead over the Eastern Conference and will look to hold the lead over the conference as they make their way towards the postseason. They’ll be facing a Rockets team that is not having one of its best seasons while they focus on developing young talent.
Next. What Recent LeBron James Rumors Could Mean For Future. dark
Therefore, Miami should leave the hometown fans happy with a, 120-100, victory over the Rockets.