2. Root for a win on April 7
The most important game remaining on the Heat’s schedule – and maybe in the league – is their April 7 matchup with the Pacers in Indiana.
This game could determine which team earns a guaranteed playoff berth and which team has to toil through the play-in tournament. (It may also determine which teams get the more friendly matchup in the first round. Would you rather face the Cavaliers or one of the Celtics or Bucks?)
Not only are the Heat and Pacers in a virtual tie in the standings, but the game will also determine who earns the season tie-breaker. The Heat are 1-1 against the Pacers this season, and April 7 is the final bout.
The Heat have to look out for Tyrese Haliburton, who torched Miami for 44 points earlier this season. Haliburton hasn’t been playing as well since injuring his hamstring, but the Pacers have also added Pascal Siakam to the mix.
Heat and Pacers fans have this game circled. Both teams will know what’s at stake.