4. Heat at Bucks, Feb. 23
Up next is one of three nationally televised matchups between the Miami Heat and the Milwaukee Bucks. Yep, out of the seven televised games, the Heat get to face the Bucks three times—because apparently, variety isn’t a thing. But hey, the Feb, 23 showdown does mark the real start of the second half of the season. Sure, they play the Raptors first, but the Bucks are the first big test after the extended break.
It could also be a valuable opportunity for any new additions via trade or the buyout market to get some rest and come back fully integrated into the Heat's system. With the Bucks providing a high-level challenge, this matchup offers a perfect test for how well the new pieces mesh with the core team. A strong performance here could set the tone for a cohesive and energized push into the playoffs.
One underrated aspect is that this is an opportunity for Bam Adebayo to push for a potential defensive player of the year campaign. Locking Giannis Antetokounmpo up on ESPN would do wonders for the brand.