The Heat beat the Knicks 109-99 in Miami. This, along with the Pacers’ loss to the Nets, moves the Heat up to sixth in the Eastern Conference. Terry Rozier played a big role once again as another part of his NBA story unfolded.
This was a crucial win for the Heat over another playoff team. Let’s dive deeper into this victory over the Knicks.
Heat 2024 Season Part 19: Rozier Helps Put Away The Knicks
Terry Rozier is the biggest storyline for the Heat’s offense in this game. Rozier scored 34 points on 10/15 shooting, which included 8/11 shooting from three-point range. Rozier came up clutch for the Heat once again, making his eighth three-pointer of the game to put the Heat ahead by eight points late in the game.
This kind of offensive impact is exactly why the Heat traded for Terry Rozier in the first place. It is great to see Rozier start to find an offensive rhythm as the playoffs approach. Hopefully, Rozier continues scoring well for the remainder of the regular season.
Haywood Highsmith Justifies His Minutes Once Again
Few expected Haywood Highsmith to be a significant contributor for the Heat this season. However, Highsmith continues to justify getting significant minutes as the Heat make their playoff push. Highsmith scored 14 points on 6/11 shooting and grabbed eight rebounds in this game.
Additionally, Highsmith played his usual excellent defense. Highsmith is one of the reasons the Heat were able to hold Knicks All-Star Jalen Brunson to 20 points on 5/18 shooting. His pressure on defense also contributed to Brunson’s five turnovers in this game.
Heat 2024 Season Part 19: The Heat Started Well and Ended Well
The Heat started off the game well, outscoring the Knicks 34-22 in the first quarter. This lead increased to 15 points as the Heat led 58-43 at halftime. The Knicks cut the Heat’s lead to 10 points heading into the fourth quarter.
However, the Heat held on and finished the game well, coming up with important defensive stops and crucial baskets in equal measure in the fourth quarter. This marks the third of the last five games where the Heat have held their opponent to under 100 points. As usual, the Heat’s defense continues to be key as they seek to at least finish outside of the play-in spots in the Eastern Conference.
The Sixers Come to Miami Next
The Heat have another crucial home game next as they host the 76ers in Miami. The Sixers are 41-35 overall and 1-2 against the Heat this season. The Sixers are also dealing with injuries to multiple key players. The Heat should take advantage of this and beat the Sixers to continue their push for a top-six seed in the East.
Check back next week for more Miami Heat content.