Miami Heat vs. Charlotte Hornets

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On April 14, 2026, the Miami Heat and Charlotte Hornets face off in a do-or-die NBA Play-In Tournament game at the Spectrum Center, where the winner remains in the playoff race and the loser's season ends. The Heat lead the regular season series 3-1, including a recent 136-106 loss to Charlotte on March 17.

Betting odds favor the Hornets (-210 moneyline, -5.5 spread), while the total points over/under is set at 229.5. Key player projections include LaMelo Ball (over 7.5 assists), Brandon Miller (over 20.5 points), and Bam Adebayo (over 10.5 rebounds).

Miami, which finished its regular season with a 143-117 win over Atlanta, must improve its shaky defense against Charlotte's high-tempo offense. The Hornets, coming off an 110-96 victory over the New York Knicks, rely on LaMelo Ball's playmaking and team defense.

Starting lineups feature Davion Mitchell, Tyler Herro, Andrew Wiggins, Bam Adebayo, and Kel'el Ware for the Heat, and LaMelo Ball, Brandon Miller, Kon Knueppel, Miles Bridges, and Moussa Diabate for the Hornets. Despite Miami's experienced roster and coach Eric Spoelstra,...