Heat v 76ers Game 1 Predictions Favor the Top Seed

By: Aron

Posted: April 29, 2022

Updated: April 29, 2022

The 76ers' offense runs through Joel Embiid but Bam Adebayo or a double team might be able to slow him down. If Harden fails to step up Philadelphia isn't taking Game 1. With Butler and Lowry returning, the Heat will have plenty of solutions for every problem. Check out our predictions for Game 1 of the Heat v 76ers.

The 76ers’ offense runs through Joel Embiid but Bam Adebayo or a double team might be able to slow him down. If Harden fails to step up Philadelphia isn’t taking Game 1. With Butler and Lowry returning, the Heat will have plenty of solutions for every problem. Check out our predictions for Game 1 of the Heat v 76ers.

Heat v 76ers Game 1 Predictions

Miami has some more time to rest after they closed the first-round series against Atlanta on April 27. The Heat had one of the best defenses in the league this season and it showed against the Hawks. Trae Young and co. were completely shut down. It will be interesting to see how that defense performs against Embiid and the 76ers. Miami finished the season 2-2 against Philadelphia, winning one game at home and on the road each. Butler and Herro are the primary offensive weapons of the Heat. As for the injury report, both Kyle Lowry and Jimmy Butler are expected to start in Game 1 after missing the last of their encounters in the first round. Furthermore, Miami has one of the deepest rosters in the league. These things all play a part in our Game 1 predictions of Heat v 76ers.

For the most part, Butler shot poorly from mid-range but still averaged 30.5 PPG in the first round. However, his averages from the 3-point line and in the restricted area were phenomenal. Of course, it’s also important to note the upcoming matchup of Joel Embiid and Bam Adebayo. The Miami center has proved earlier this season that he’s capable of defending Embiid but there is something else. No one draws fouls like Joel Embiid. Even when he shoots below 30%-40% he can knock those free throws down. Our predictions for Game 1 of Heat v 76ers are simple. Miami will take this one. Additionally, there’s one last thing to add. Harden could be the X-factor in this series. Butler will no doubt have guard duty most of the time and he can be a menace on both ends. If Harden fails, he’ll take most of the blame for the loss.