Miami Heat prepare for pivotal clash against Knicks with roster challenges and Jović’s rallying cry for rebounding
The Miami Heat are gearing up for an important matchup against the New York Knicks on Monday, November 17, at 7:30 p.m. EST, taking place at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. Fans can catch the game on the FanDuel Sports Network and MSG Network, with radio coverage available on WQAM 104.3, The Heat Audio Experience, WAQI 710 AM, and ESPN New York.
Season Series and Historical Context
This game marks the third of four regular-season encounters between the two teams. Currently, the series is tied at one win apiece, with each team having secured a victory on its home court. Historically, the Heat have faced the Knicks 142 times in the regular season, with Miami holding a record of 67-75 against New York. At home, the Heat have a more favorable record of 38-32, while they struggle on the road with a 29-43 record. Notably, the Knicks have found success in recent matchups, winning seven of the last ten.
Projected Starting Lineups
HEAT
G Davion Mitchell
G Norman Powell
C Kel’el Ware
F Pelle Larsson
F Andrew Wiggins
KNICKS
G Miles McBride
G Mikal Bridges
C Mitchell Robinson
F Josh Hart
F Karl Anthony Towns
Injury Report
The Heat will be missing key players, including:
Bam Adebayo: Out – Toe
Tyler Herro: Out – Foot
Terry Rozier: Out – Not with team
Kasparas Jakučionis: Out – G League
Myron Gardner: Out – G League
For the Knicks, the injury list includes:
Jalen Brunson: Out – Ankle
OG Anunoby: Out – Hamstring
Miles McBride: Questionable – Personal
Kevin McCullar: Day-to-day – Nose
Betting Lines
According to FanDuel, the betting lines for the game are as follows:
Spread: Heat -1.5 (-114), Knicks +1.5 (-106)
Moneyline: Heat -122, Knicks +104
Total points scored: 241.5 (over -112, under -108)
Jović’s Call for Rebounding Focus
Amid these challenges, Heat forward Nikola Jović has voiced concerns about the team’s rebounding issues. “I think we’re not as bad as the stats show. I think it’s a little bit mental now, the fact that we talk about it so much. But it’s good, we need something like this,” he said. Jović emphasized the need for focused practices and discussions, stating, “Everybody’s got to be more locked in.”
With a critical game on the horizon, the Heat must rally together, especially in light of their injury struggles. As they prepare to face the Knicks, the emphasis on rebounding and team cohesion will be crucial in their quest for victory.
