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Miami Heat vs. Cleveland Cavaliers: Preview, Predictions and Picks for April 20, 2025

Updated on:
Apr 22, 2025 9:10 AM
On Sunday, April 20, 2025, at 7:00 PM, the 10th-seeded Miami Heat will travel to the Rocket Arena to take on the top-ranked Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference First Round. Led by Bam Adebayo, the Heat look to upset the Cavs, who dominated the regular season with a 64-18 record. Miami will need to bring their A-game to hang with the Cavaliers, who are favorites to make a deep playoff run.
Miami Heat vs Cleveland Cavaliers

Current Odds

MIA
CLE
Over
212.0
-106
Under
213.0
-110
MIA
+11.5
-102
CLE
-13.5
+117
MIA
ML
+515
CLE
ML
-640

Heat vs Cavaliers statistics

Stat Heat Cavaliers
Streak - -
Points Per Game 110.6 121.9
Rebounds Per Game 43.4 45.4
Assists Per Game 26.4 28.1
Blocks Per Game 3.8 4.3
Steals Per Game 8.1 8.2
Field Goal % 46.5 49.1
Three Point % 36.7 38.3

Cleveland Cavaliers recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
4/13/25 vs Indiana Pacers L 126-118 2OT
4/11/25 @ New York Knicks W 108-102
4/10/25 @ Indiana Pacers L 114-112
4/8/25 vs Chicago Bulls W 135-113
4/6/25 vs Sacramento Kings L 120-113

Miami Heat recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
4/18/25 @ Atlanta Hawks W 123-114 OT
4/16/25 @ Chicago Bulls W 109-90
4/13/25 vs Washington Wizards L 119-118
4/11/25 @ New Orleans Pelicans W 153-104
4/9/25 @ Chicago Bulls L 119-111

Miami Heat injuries

  • Kevin Love (PF): Out
  • Isaiah Stevens (G): Out
  • Dru Smith (G): Out

Heat vs Cavaliers game info

Type Info
Venue Rocket Arena
Location Cleveland, OH
Tip-off Sun 7:00 PM
TV TNT

Heat vs Cavaliers predictions

When Miami Heat hits the floor against the Cleveland Cavaliers, all eyes will likely be on Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo. Tyler Herro, known for his sharpshooting, is expected to lead the scoring charge for Miami, possibly racking up around 24 points. On top of scoring, he will be crucial in setting up plays and distributing the ball effectively, contributing around five assists. Meanwhile, the battle under the rim will see Bam Adebayo dominating the boards. Expect him to pull down over 12 rebounds and score close to 19 points. He’ll also bring that defensive intensity with a couple of steals thrown in for good measure. You have to wonder if Miami's supporting cast, with guys like Haywood Highsmith and Duncan Robinson, can step up to surprise Cleveland.

On the Cavaliers' side, it’s Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland who are expected to lead the charge. You might see Mitchell putting on a show with approximately 23 points, blending both flair and efficiency. Let's not forget his playmaking prowess with around five assists. Garland should complement him perfectly, adding about 19 points and showcasing his court vision with roughly seven assists. Jarrett Allen will likely be the anchor inside, where his rebounding prowess should see him snatch around 11 rebounds and add a robust defensive presence with blocks and steals. Across the court, players like Evan Mobley could turn the tide with a well-rounded performance, contributing to a team that forms a cohesive unit.

Considering both lineups and recent performances, the scales tip in favor of the Cleveland Cavaliers, particularly since they're playing at home at Rocket Arena. The Cavs, coming off an impressive season, are expected to bring their 'A' game, securing what could be a decisive win. While the Heat's spirit and resilience cannot be underestimated, the Cavaliers seem to have a deeper lineup that might just outlast Miami. This sets the stage not only for an exciting tip-off but also potentially the entire series, with Cleveland having an edge as they aim to start the playoffs on a high note. What do you think? Could the Miami Heat pull off an upset? It’s definitely going to be a game worth watching.

Cleveland Cavaliers

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Miami Heat

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Miami Heat
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