Suns Target Fourth Consecutive Victory Against Slumping Heat
The Phoenix Suns arrive in Miami with momentum on their side. They face the Miami Heat tonight at the Kaseya Centre. Phoenix aims to push its current winning run to four straight games. This marks a significant turnaround for a team that entered the season with tempered expectations.
Phoenix's Remarkable Mid-Season Surge
Early season performances left much to be desired for the Suns. They played .500 basketball for most of December. Mediocre results defined their initial campaign. However, the narrative has shifted dramatically over the last eleven games.
Led by the stellar play of Devin Booker, Phoenix has found its rhythm. The team boasts a 9-2 record in that recent stretch. Booker spearheads one of the league's most balanced offensive attacks. This cohesion has propelled them up the standings.
Miami's Recent Struggles and Injury Concerns
The Miami Heat, in contrast, enter this contest on a downward slide. They have lost four of their last five outings. A three-game losing streak currently burdens the squad. Their once-potent offense has hit a rough patch, struggling to find consistency.
The return of Tyler Herro provides a glimmer of hope. Yet, significant injury concerns linger for the Heat. Norman Powell is listed as day-to-day with lower-back soreness. His availability for tonight's game remains doubtful. Even if he plays, he likely won't be at full strength. Terry Rozier is also out, on immediate leave.
When and Where to Watch the Game
This NBA matchup tips off on Tuesday, January 13. The game starts at 7:30 p.m. Eastern Time. The Kaseya Centre in Miami hosts the contest. It begins a six-game road trip for the Phoenix Suns.
Fans can catch the broadcast on Arizona's Family Sports and 3TV. KTVK and FDSN Sun will also telecast the entire match. For live streaming, Fubo will carry the game.
Expected Starting Lineups
Phoenix Suns
- PG: Collin Gillespie
- SG: Devin Booker
- SF: Grayson Allen
- PF: Dillon Brooks
- C: Mark Williams
Miami Heat
- PG: Davion Mitchell
- SG: Tyler Herro
- SF: Norman Powell (Questionable)
- PF: Andrew Wiggins
- C: Bam Adebayo
Injury Report for Both Teams
Phoenix Suns
- Jalen Green: Out (Hamstring)
- Jamaree Bouyea: Out (Concussion)
Miami Heat
- Norman Powell: Day-to-day (Lower-back soreness)
- Terry Rozier: Out (On immediate leave)
Game Prediction and Analysis
The Phoenix Suns hold a 24-15 record. The Miami Heat stand at 20-19. Phoenix has won eight of its last ten games. They ride a three-game winning streak into Miami. The Suns are coming off a solid 112-93 victory over the Washington Wizards. Before that, they secured a more significant road win against the New York Knicks.
Overall, the Suns' recent form gives them a clear edge. Their scoring balance and team cohesiveness are major advantages. However, Miami's home-court advantage at the Kaseya Centre cannot be ignored. The Heat's defensive discipline could play a crucial role. If Miami can limit Phoenix's three-point efficiency, they might keep the game competitive. But based on current trajectories, the Suns appear poised to extend their winning streak.
