Heat overcome Hawks in Wednesday’s high‑energy showdown
On Friday night at the arena in Atlanta, the Miami Heat defeated the Atlanta Hawks 126‑111, improving the series record in Miami’s favor.
Bam Adebayo was absent, so Miami started the game with Kel’el Ware, Andrew Wiggins, Norman Powell, Davion Mitchell, and Pelle Larsson. Atlanta opened with Trae Young, Dyson Daniels, Zaccharie Risacher, Jalen Johnson, and Onyeka Okongwu. The Heat’s frontcourt stood 7‑0 against Atlanta’s 6‑9 for the center position, while other positions were largely similar in height.
Miami forced 12 turnovers by Atlanta in the first half and scored 14 fast‑break points in the second. The coaching staff adapted defensive schemes in response to Adebayo’s absence; Nikola Jovic returned for the ninth man and Dru Smith recorded a deep lay‑up. The rotation also featured Jaquelin and Kaspars as key contributors from the bench.
Coach Erik Spoelstra emphasized maintaining the team’s tempo and defensive habits to compensate for the missing interior defender. He highlighted the need for aggressive energy and reliable play throughout the rotation. Momentum building, Miami’s leadership said the group would continue seeking a consistent game plan to secure wins.
The victory marked the sixth in Miami’s 15 consecutive back‑to‑back sets this season, giving the club a 3‑2 record in second‑night games. The result sustains momentum as the series progresses.