Dallas Mavericks vs Miami Heat: Prediction, Preview, Picks & Odds - 4/1/2023

Time: 7:30 p.m. ET

Venue: Miami-Dade Arena, Miami, FL

Where to watch: BSSW-DAL, BSSUN

DraftKings: Check back later for odds

BetMGM: Check back later for odds

Caesars: Check back later for odds

Mavs: 37-40

Heat: 40-37

On April 1, 2023, the Dallas Mavericks will travel to Miami to take on the Heat in Miami. Both teams have had up-and-down seasons so far, with one team on the cusp of making the play-in while the other is completely bottoming out. This upcoming matchup will be crucial for both teams as they look to secure a playoff spot and build momentum heading into the postseason.

The Dallas Mavericks have been led by their superstar forward, Luka Doncic, who is averaging 28.8 points, 8.4 rebounds, and 9.7 assists per game this season. Doncic has been a force on both ends of the court and has been a key reason for the Mavericks' success this season. In addition to Doncic, the Mavericks have gotten tremendous play from Kyrie Irving, averaging 29 points per game since coming to Dallas. The problem is the Mavs have no defense and can't stop anyone, leading to their star pairing getting outscored.

The Miami Heat have also had a solid season, with a well-balanced roster and a strong defense. They have been led by their star forward, Jimmy Butler, who is averaging 21.3 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 6.9 assists per game this season. Butler has been a vocal leader on and off the court for the Heat and has helped guide the team to their current position in the standings. The Heat also have a strong supporting cast, including Bam Adebayo, Tyler Herro, and Kyle Lowry. They have scored an average of 107.7 points per game and have allowed an average of just 103.4 points against per game, the second-best mark in the league.

When these two teams last met earlier in the season, it was the Mavericks who emerged victorious with a 93-83 win on home court. However, both teams have gone through changes since then, and this upcoming matchup could go either way. The Mavericks will be looking to build on their previous win and continue their strong play down the stretch, while the Heat will be looking to avenge their previous loss and solidify their playoff spot.

One key factor to watch out for in this game is the battle between Doncic and Butler. Both players are known for their tenacity and competitiveness on both ends of the court, and this matchup could be a key factor in determining the outcome of the game. Doncic will need to find ways to get his teammates involved while also scoring at a high rate, while Butler will need to continue his strong all-around play and provide leadership for the Heat.

Another factor to consider is the bench play of both teams. The Mavericks have a deep bench, including players such as Dwight Powell, and Maxi Kleber, who can provide a spark off the bench and give the starters some rest. The Heat, on the other hand, have struggled with their bench play at times this season and will need players such as Herro and Dewayne Dedmon to step up in this game.

In addition, the defensive intensity of both teams will be key in this game. Both the Mavericks and the Heat are known for their strong defense and ability to disrupt their opponents' offensive game plans. Whichever team can limit their opponent's scoring opportunities and force turnovers could have a significant advantage in this game.

In conclusion, the upcoming matchup between the Dallas Mavericks and the Miami Heat promises to be an exciting and closely contested game. Both teams have had solid seasons so far, and this game could have implications on their playoff positioning.

Prediction

I'm done picking the Mavs. They failed again. Heat 118, Mavs 112

PG: Luka Doncic

SG: Kyrie Irving

SF: Reggie Bullock

PF: Maxi Kleber

C: Dwight Powell

PG: Gabe Vincent

SG: Tyler Herro

SF: Jimmy Butler

PF: Kevin Love

C: Bam Adebayo