In the opening game of the NBA season, the Miami Heat host the Toronto Raptors. It’s time to make another prediction and choice in our NBA odds series for the Raptors vs. Heat game.
The Raptors have a losing record thus far after defeating the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 and the Brooklyn Nets in Game 2. The game against the Nets on Friday night was fantastic as the Raptors competed fiercely. When the game was deadlocked, Kevin Durant hit a crucial three-pointer with 56 seconds remaining. That helped them to win, but even so, the Raptors are once again demonstrating their seriousness.
To begin the season, the Heat were defeated by the Boston Celtics and Chicago Bulls. Despite their 0-2 record, they are still regarded as one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference. Prior to falling to the Celtics in the Eastern Conference Finals, they finished the previous season with the No. 1 seed. With Jimmy Butler as their leader, this season is crucial for them as they attempt to turn things around.
From FanDuel, here are the odds for the Raptors vs. Heat matchup.
NBA Odds: Raptors-Heat Odds
Raptors of Toronto: +3 (-110)
Heat of Miami: -3 (-110)
Over: 216 (-110) (-110)
Under: 216 (-110)
Why The Raptors Could Cover The Spread
When Pascal Siakam arrived in Brooklyn, he finished with an incredible triple-double. He ended with a total of 37 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists. The former All-Star shot 71.4% from the field, and the Raptors will have a strong chance of winning this game if he has another outstanding performance. The next greatest scoring options are Fred Van Vleet and Gary Trent Jr., who both average 16.5 points per game, behind him, who is averaging 30 per game. ROY They have a strong offensive core, as evidenced by the fact that Scottie Barnes is right behind them, averaging 16. With the Heat’s excellent defence, it won’t be simple, but they must perform once again on the road.
This team still doesn’t actually use a centre. Despite their stature, they perform best when the lineup is shortened and the game is played quickly. You would think that either Siakam or O.G. Anunoby would stand up for Jimmy Butler since they will be tasked with attempting to shut him down. Since the Heat have not yet won a game, you can be sure that they will be offensively sharp tonight.
Why The Heat Could Cover The Spread
Both Tyler Herro and Jimmy Butler performed admirably against the Celtics, but Herro ended up with the most points. Butler had 18, whereas he had 25 at the end. Kyle Lowry was finally able to start playing offensively, which is wonderful news for Miami. After scoring just two points in the first game, he hit three 3-pointers en route to a total of 17 points. If they want to be the squad they were last season, Lowry must produce at least 15 points per night. Bam Adebayo is certain to score many goals tonight. Given Toronto’s lack of size, he ought to receive the ball far more frequently.
For the Heat, stopping Siakam will be crucial on defence. He has performed admirably in his first two games and, if the Heat aren’t careful, he could be a nightmare. Expect both teams to start using the 3-ball early in the game since they both enjoy shooting it.
Final Raptors-Heat Prediction & Pick
I predict a closely contested, high-scoring contest. Since the spread is too close to call, go with the over at 216.
Raptors-Heat prediction and selection: over 216 (-110)
NBA Odds: Raptors vs. Heat pick, odds, and prediction for 10/22/2022 originally published on ClutchPoints.
