Orlando Magic vs Miami Heat Picks and Predictions December 26th 2024

Heat Eye Revenge Against Magic in Intriguing Rematch

The Miami Heat get another crack at the Orlando Magic on Thursday, aiming to avenge Saturday’s stunning collapse. The Heat led by 25 points before unraveling in the fourth quarter, where they were outscored 37-8 en route to a 121-114 loss at home.

Heat Seek Redemption

Miami (15-15) bounced back with a 110-95 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Monday, with guard Tyler Herro emphasizing the team’s motivation against Orlando: “We owe them one.”

The Heat have struggled with consistency this season and hover around .500. Star guard Jimmy Butler, averaging 18.5 points per game, has missed the past two contests due to illness and is uncertain to play Thursday. Reports suggest Butler may also seek a trade before the Feb. 6 deadline, adding to Miami’s challenges.

Miami’s strength lies in defense, allowing 109.4 points per game (sixth best in the NBA). On offense, Herro has carried the load, averaging a career-high 23.9 points per game. He recognizes the need for Miami to sustain effort throughout games: “We have to stay focused and consistent in our game and our identity for a full 48 minutes.”

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Magic Defying Odds Despite Injuries

The Magic (17-11) enter Thursday’s matchup on a high after defeating the Boston Celtics 108-104 on Monday. Orlando erased a 15-point halftime deficit, showcasing their resilience and grit.

Coach Jamahl Mosley praised his team’s collective effort: “It’s a fighting group, it’s a gritty group, it’s a confident group that believes in themselves. It’s by committee every night.”

Orlando has been hit hard by injuries, losing Mo Wagner to a torn ACL in Saturday’s win over Miami. The Magic are also without top scorers Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, both sidelined with oblique injuries. Despite these setbacks, the team sits fourth in the Eastern Conference.

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The Magic’s defense has been their calling card, allowing just 103.9 points per game (second best in the league) and leading the NBA in blocked shots (7 per game, tied with San Antonio). Contributions from the bench have been vital, with first-round pick Tristan Da Silva scoring 18 points and G-League call-up Trevelin Queen adding 17 in the win over Boston.

Mosley highlighted Queen’s fearlessness: “He’s not afraid of big moments, not afraid to take on challenges. It’s why we talk about him going back and forth to Osceola, because that’s the environment we have created.”

What to Watch For

• Defense vs. Defense: Both teams pride themselves on defense, ranking among the league’s best in points allowed. Expect a grind-it-out battle where every possession matters.
• Herro’s Leadership: With Butler’s availability in question, Herro’s ability to lead Miami’s offense will be crucial.
• Orlando’s Depth: The Magic’s “next man up” mentality has shined, with players like Da Silva and Queen stepping up. Can the supporting cast deliver again?

Season Series

Orlando has won both meetings with Miami this season, including Saturday’s thrilling comeback. Thursday’s game marks the fifth of a seven-game homestand for the Magic, who will look to maintain their momentum and tighten their grip on an impressive start to the season.