Hawks vs Heat Preview: New Era Sparks Atlanta Run

Atlanta comes to Miami after a big roster change that centers the team on Jalen Johnson. Johnson has become the Hawks' go-to star, mixing scoring, passing, and rebounding while showing resilience. Miami still leans on Bam Adebayo for defense and rebounding, though Tyler Herro has missed time with ribs. This game feels like a test: can Atlanta’s new identity handle Miami’s discipline and defense in a season finale that matters for seeding?

Matchups matter because Atlanta gets size from Jalen Johnson and Miami counters with Bam Adebayo. Atlanta could miss Jock Landale, so Onyeka Okongwu and Mouhamed Gueye should see more center minutes. Several Hawks are listed as questionable including Dyson Daniels, Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Jonathan Kuminga and CJ McCollum, so role players could step up. Miami might be missing Norman Powell or Simone Fontecchio could play while Tyler Herro remains out with rib trouble.

Jalen Johnson is the story; he posted another triple-double and looks like a franchise cornerstone. Dyson Daniels gives Atlanta elite perimeter defense, though his offense can wobble under pressure. For Miami, Bam Adebayo must anchor both ends and recover from a cold shooting night versus Atlanta. Norman Powell’s availability affects Miami’s scoring. This finale could show which team has the depth and consistency to head confidently into the play-in.