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Will Derrick Rose Play Tonight? Miami Heat vs New York Knicks: Preview, Lineups & Predictions

Published 02/09/2021, 11:30 AM EST

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USA Today via Reuters

In this reverse fixture, the Miami Heat will host the New York Knicks after beating them 109-103 in the previous clash at MSG. With a win here, the Heat (9-14) can move closer to the playoff spots while derailing the bid of the New Yorkers (11-14).

Date & Time: February 9, 2021, 7:30pm ET

Venue: AmericanAirlines Arena, Miami

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USA Today via Reuters

Preview | Miami Heat

After defying all the odds to reach the NBA Finals last season, Miami is in a spot of bother right now. A spate of injuries and COVID suspensions haven’t helped their cause either. But the pieces are finally coming together for them this season as they are on a two-game winning run.

Goran Dragic did not participate in Sunday’s victory and will sit out again because of an ankle injury. But that has paved the way for Kendrick Nunn to have a bigger role. After starring in his rookie campaign, Nunn’s sophomore year got off to a slow start.

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However, he is starting to catch fire. The 25-year-old scored 16 points in the last game, while Bam Adebayo recorded 24 to his name. A second successive win against the Knicks will strengthen their playoff bid.

Possible Starting 5 for the Miami Heat

Guard – Kendrick Nunn

Guard – Duncan Robinson

Center – Bam Adebayo

Forward – Kelly Olynyk

Forward – Jimmy Butler

Preview | New York Knicks

The Knicks are grabbing all the headlines; however, for the right reasons. Their young core has rejuvenated the fans’ belief in the team. And to put cheery on top, they recently acquired former league MVP Derrick Rose in a trade deal.

USA Today via Reuters

So, fans will be excited about seeing Rose once again play for the Knicks. However, the former Piston might not make his official debut tonight as he is nursing a knee injury that has kept him out for a few games.

Possible Starting 5 for the New York Knicks

Guard – RJ Barrett

Guard – Elfrid Payton

Center – Mitchell Robinson

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Forward – Julius Randle

Forward – Reggie Bullock

Predictions | Heat vs Knicks

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It is hard to recognize either team as the favorite in this encounter. While the Knicks have been playing admirably this season, the Miami Heat have found their mojo back. They’re also playing in their home arena, so the balance of scale might be slightly tipping in their favor.

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Written by:

Bharat Aggarwal

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Bharat Aggarwal is a sports analyst for EssentiallySports, covering Formula 1 and NBA. A Delhi University graduate, Bharat has multi-year experience in sports writing, having closely worked with the content strategy aspect as well. Bharat Aggarwal supports Manchester United, Lewis Hamilton, Cristiano Ronaldo, Rafael Nadal, Dirk Nowitzki, Sachin Tendulkar, Ayrton Senna, Kristaps Porzingis, and Dallas Mavericks.
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