Miami Heat vs. Atlanta Hawks Prediction and Picks - April 18, 2025
The Miami Heat and Atlanta Hawks are set to clash in a pivotal NBA Play-In Tournament game on Friday, April 18, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. This matchup will determine the Eastern Conference's eighth seed, with the winner advancing to face the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers in the first round of the playoffs.
Team Overviews
Miami Heat (37–45, 10th Seed)
The Heat enter this contest with momentum, having secured a convincing 109–90 victory over the Chicago Bulls in their previous Play-In game. Tyler Herro led the charge with an impressive 38-point performance, showcasing his scoring prowess. Center Bam Adebayo contributed significantly on both ends of the floor, while rookie Kel'el Ware provided valuable minutes off the bench.
Under the guidance of head coach Erik Spoelstra, Miami aims to leverage its recent playoff experience and resilient defense to overcome the Hawks on the road.
Atlanta Hawks (40–42, 9th Seed)
The Hawks are looking to rebound after a disappointing 120–95 loss to the Orlando Magic in their initial Play-In game. Despite the setback, Atlanta boasts a dynamic offense led by All-Star guard Trae Young, who averages 22.8 points and 10.9 assists per game. The team also features promising talents like Dyson Daniels and rookie Zaccharie Risacher, who have contributed to the Hawks' offensive versatility.
Playing at home, where they have found success against Miami during the regular season, the Hawks aim to capitalize on their offensive firepower to secure a playoff berth.
Injury Reports
Miami Heat
Nikola Jovic (F): Out (fractured right hand)
Pelle Larsson (G): Questionable (right ankle sprain)
Kevin Love (F): Questionable (return to competition conditioning)
Dru Smith (G): Out for the season (Achilles injury)
Atlanta Hawks
Clint Capela (C): Out due to a hand injury.
Trae Young (PG): Day-to-day with an Achilles issue.
Larry Nance Jr. (PF): Out for the season with a right knee fracture.
Jalen Johnson (SF): Out for the season due to a torn labrum in his left shoulder.
Kobe Bufkin (G): Out for the season following surgery for right shoulder instability.
Betting Odds
Spread: Hawks -1
Moneyline: Hawks -114, Heat -105
Over/Under: 218 points
Head-to-Head Matchup
During the 2024–25 regular season, the Heat and Hawks faced each other four times, splitting the series 2–2. Notably, the home team emerged victorious in each encounter, highlighting the significance of home-court advantage in this rivalry.
Key Matchups
Tyler Herro vs. Trae Young
Both guards are the offensive catalysts for their respective teams. Herro's recent scoring surge, exemplified by his 38-point outing against the Bulls, will be crucial for Miami. Conversely, Young's playmaking and scoring abilities are vital for Atlanta's success.
Bam Adebayo vs. Hawks' Frontcourt
Adebayo's defensive versatility and rebounding will be tested against the Hawks' frontcourt, especially if Onyeka Okongwu is available. Controlling the paint and limiting second-chance opportunities will be key for Miami.
Prediction
This Play-In matchup is poised to be a tightly contested battle, with both teams possessing the talent and motivation to secure the final playoff spot. While the Hawks have the advantage of playing at home, the Heat's recent form and playoff experience under coach Spoelstra could prove decisive.
Final Score Prediction: Miami Heat 106, Atlanta Hawks 102
Expect a closely fought game, with the Heat edging out the Hawks to clinch the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference.
