Miami Heat vs Charlotte Hornets: Preview, Prediction, and Betting Odds

The Miami Heat (32-28) will face off against the Charlotte Hornets (18-43) on Saturday, February 25, at 7 p.m. EST at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. The Hornets are currently favored to win by 4.5 points, with the over/under set at 226.5 points.

Miami Heat

The Miami Heat will look to bounce back after losing their last three games, including a 128-99 blowout against the Milwaukee Bucks. The Heat are 7-3 against Southeast Division teams and second in the Eastern Conference, giving up just 108.6 points while holding opponents to 47.7% shooting.

All-Star forward Jimmy Butler is leading the way for the Heat, averaging 21.7 points, 5.9 rebounds, five assists, and two steals per game. Guard Gabe Vincent has also been a valuable contributor, averaging 2.3 made 3-pointers over the last 10 games.

The Heat are currently on a three-game losing streak, having lost to the Bucks, Brooklyn Nets, and Denver Nuggets. However, they will look to turn things around against the Hornets and secure a crucial victory to solidify their position in the Eastern Conference.

Charlotte Hornets

The Charlotte Hornets have struggled this season, currently sitting in 14th place in the Eastern Conference with a record of 18-43. The Hornets have gone 6-8 against division opponents and have a 12-25 record against teams above .500.

Despite their struggles, guard Terry Rozier has been a standout performer for the Hornets, averaging 21.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game. Rookie LaMelo Ball has also been impressive, averaging 20.5 points and 6.3 rebounds while shooting 41.1% over the last 10 games.

The Hornets will also look to turn things around after a 121-113 victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves. However, they will have their work cut out for them against a Miami team that has been one of the best in the Eastern Conference this season.

Betting Trends and Public Betting Data

According to KingPin.pro, the public is heavily favoring the Miami Heat to cover the spread, with 71% of bets on the Heat. However, the public is also leaning towards the under, with 58% of bets on the total points staying below 226.5.

The Heat are 1-7 against the spread in their last eight games and the total has gone over in five of their last seven games. The Hornets, on the other hand, are 3-6 against the spread in their last nine games and the total has gone under in eight of their last 10 games.

Prediction and Pick

Based on the recent form and the overall statistics, we predict that the Miami Heat will win and cover the spread, with the total points staying under 226.5. The Heat have a better record and are the more well-rounded team, with a strong defense and several key contributors on offense. On the other hand, the Hornets have struggled against teams above .500 and have a poor record against division opponents.

The Heat have also been dominant in recent meetings against the Hornets, winning seven of their last eight matchups. The Hornets' last victory over the Heat came on January 29, 2022, when they defeated Miami 122-117.

Our pick: Miami Heat -4.5.