Two years after losing LeBron James, the Heat are just two spots behind the Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference. The emergence of Hassan Whiteside as an offensive force in addition to a defensive monster and rebounder has been a big reason why. Dwyane Wade also had a solid year, helping offset the loss of Chris Bosh midway through the season.
The Hornets quietly had a very good regular season, especially in the second half as they went 21-8 following the All-Star break. Kemba Walker (20.9 points per game) is the team’s leading scorer, but Nicolas Batum and Jeremy Lin have been pleasant surprises as well.
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Despite their seeding disparity, the No. 3 Heat and No. 6 Hornets have the same records. Here's a look at this series.
Heat vs. Hornets matchup to watch
Hornets front line vs. Whiteside.
Whiteside had a solid season (14.2 points, 11.8 rebounds and 3.7 blocks per game) but didn’t do so well against the Hornets. His numbers against them were much lower (9.3 points and 7.8 rebounds per game) than his overall averages. The Hornets have two very different centers in Cody Zeller, an athletic rim-runner without elite skills, and Al Jefferson, a low-post banger who loves the challenge of facing a shot-blocker.
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Heat vs. Hornets regular-season series
Teams tied 2-2: Heat 104-94; Hornets 99-81; Heat 98-95; Hornets 109-106.
Heat vs. Hornets schedule
All times p.m. Eastern
Game 1: Sunday, April 17 in Miami, 5:30 (TNT)
Game 2: Wednesday, April 20 in Miami, 7 (NBATV)
Game 3: Saturday, April 23 in Charlotte, 7:30 (NBATV)
Game 4: Monday, April 25 in Charlotte, TBA (TNT)
Game 5: Wednesday, April 27 in Miami (TBD if necessary)
Game 6: Friday, April 29 in Charlotte (TBD if necessary)
Game 7: Sunday, May 1 in Miami (TBD if necessary)
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Heat vs. Hornets prediction
The Heat are the higher seed, but not necessarily the better team. If the Hornets can keep Whiteside at bay inside as they've done all season, it should be a fun series to watch. This could be Kemba Walker's NBA coming out party.
Hornets in seven.