The 2025 NBA Play-In Tournament delivers a high-stakes showdown as the Miami Heat face the Atlanta Hawks today, Friday, April 18, for the Eastern Conference’s No. 8 seed.

So, let’s take a look at our Heat vs. Hawks predictions today. With a playoff berth on the line, both teams are primed for a fierce battle at State Farm Arena. 

Here’s everything you need to know about this critical matchup, including Heat vs. Hawks picks, odds, storylines, betting picks, and how to watch.

 

 

 

Heat vs. Hawks Predictions for NBA on TNT, 4/18

The Miami Heat and Atlanta Hawks are set for a win-or-go-home clash, with the winner advancing to face the top-seeded Cleveland Cavaliers in the playoffs. 

The Heat, coming off a gritty 104-101 victory over the Chicago Bulls in the 9-vs-10 play-in game, are battle-tested but face fatigue from a quick turnaround and travel. Meanwhile, the Hawks, who fell 120 - 95 to the Orlando Magic in the 7-vs-8 game, have home-court advantage and a rested roster.

Miami’s defensive tenacity and playoff experience under coach Erik Spoelstra give them an edge, despite their 37-45 regular-season record. The Heat’s ability to lock in on Trae Young and limit Atlanta’s three-point shooting will be crucial. 

Conversely, the Hawks’ fast-paced offense, led by Young’s playmaking, could exploit Miami’s tired legs. Atlanta’s 27th-ranked defense, which allowed 14.5 opponent three-pointers per game at home, is a vulnerability against Miami’s sharpshooters like Tyler Herro.

Heat vs. Hawks Predictions: The Heat’s playoff pedigree and defensive discipline should prevail in a close contest. Expect Miami to cover as slight underdogs and advance as the No. 8 seed, with a projected score of Heat 108, Hawks 104. The game leans toward the under, given Miami’s defensive focus and Atlanta’s inconsistent scoring against tough defenses.

 

 

 

Miami Heat: Post-Butler Identity Takes Shape

The Miami Heat’s 2024-25 season has been defined by transition after trading Jimmy Butler to the Golden State Warriors for Andrew Wiggins, Kyle Anderson, and a first-round pick. Without Butler’s clutch scoring, the Heat have leaned on Tyler Herro’s emergence as a primary offensive weapon, averaging a career-high 24.2 points per game. 

Andrew Wiggins has also stepped up, delivering 17.6 points and 4.6 rebounds per game, including a 20-point, 9-rebound performance against Chicago. Miami’s 37- 45 regular-season record belies their playoff potential, as Spoelstra’s system thrives in high-pressure settings. With a top-10 defense and a chip on their shoulder, Miami aims to prove they’re more than a play-in team.

 

 

 

Atlanta Hawks: Young’s Playmaking Faces Defensive Test

The Atlanta Hawks (40-42) are fighting to salvage their season after a disappointing loss to Orlando. Trae Young, averaging 24.2 points and 11.6 assists, remains the engine of Atlanta’s offense, but his efficiency against Miami has been spotty. The Hawks’ depth has been hit hard by injuries, with Jalen Johnson (shoulder) out for the season and Clint Capela recovering from a hand injury.

Atlanta’s fast-paced style (10th in pace) generates open looks, but their 27th-ranked defense struggles to contain shooters, allowing a league-worst 37.9% from three at home. Despite splitting the season series 2-2 with Miami, the Hawks face an uphill battle to slow down a Heat team that’s 11-4 against the spread in their last 15 games.

 

 

 

Heat vs. Hawks Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

Here are the latest Heat vs. Hawks odds as of April 18, 2025, from major sportsbooks:

  • Money Line: Heat +100 | Hawks -120 
  • Spread: Hawks -1.5 (-110) | Heat +1.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 220.5 points (-110 for both)

     
  • Player Props:

The spread has fluctuated between Hawks -1 and Heat +1, reflecting a tight contest. The total has dropped from 222.5 to 220.5 due to under betting trends, with 65% of public bets favoring the Over. 

Miami’s 11-8 Over/Under record in their last 19 games and 3-1 over in four matchups with Atlanta suggest a potentially high-scoring affair. Always compare odds across sportsbooks to maximize value.

 

 

 

Heat vs. Hawks Best Bet: Kyle Anderson O2.5 Assists (-115 at BetMGM)

For our Heat vs. Hawks predictions, target Kyle Anderson Over 2.5 assists (-115 at BetMGM). Anderson, a versatile reserve for Miami, has settled into a key role, averaging 25 minutes per game since the Butler trade. In his most recent game against Atlanta on March 27, he dished out 5 assists in 23 minutes. 

The Hawks’ defense ranks 21st in opponent assist-to-FGM ratio, allowing 28.2 assists per game (seventh-most in the NBA). With Miami’s bench needing to step up on a back-to-back, Anderson’s playmaking should clear this line, with projections estimating 3.3 to 3.5 assists. This prop offers value compared to its implied -200 pricing.

 

 

 

How To Watch Heat vs. Hawks on TNT Today

  • Date: Friday, April 18, 2025
  • Time: 7:00 PM ET
  • Location: State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA
  • TV: TNT, truTV
  • Streaming: MAX, Hulu + Live TV, DirecTV Stream, Sling TV
  • Radio: SiriusXM NBA Radio

Fans can catch our Heat vs. Hawks predictions for this must-watch play-in game on TNT or truTV, with streaming options available. Check local listings for regional broadcasts.

 

 

 

Heat vs. Hawks Injury Report & Starting Lineup

Injury Report 

Check the official NBA injury report closer to tip-off for updates, as player statuses can change.

Projected Starting Lineups

Miami’s lineup leans on Herro’s scoring and Adebayo’s two-way play, while Atlanta’s starting five hinges on the supporting cast helping Young.

 

 

 

How To Bet On Heat vs. Hawks at BetMGM Sportsbook & Claim Your $1,500 Bonus

Making Heat vs. Hawks predictions is easy with BetMGM Sportsbook, which offers a generous welcome bonus for new users. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Register: Use our links to create an account and enter BetMGM promo code ALARM during signup.
  2. Deposit: Fund your account with a minimum of $10.
  3. Place Your Bet: Navigate to the NBA section and tail our Heat vs. Hawks picks, and or any other wager (spread, money line, over/under, or player props).
  4. Claim Your Bonus: If your first bet loses, BetMGM refunds up to $1,500 in bonus bets (as one bet for $50+ wagers or five bets for under $50).

Example: Bet $100 on the Heat money line (+100). If Miami wins, you collect $200 (stake + profit). If they lose, you get $100 back in bonus bets. Always read terms at BetMGM.com/promos. Must be 21+ and in a legal betting state (e.g., VA). Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

This Heat vs. Hawks matchup promises playoff intensity, with Miami’s grit clashing against Atlanta’s home-court energy. Tune into our Heat vs. Hawks predictions on TNT, place your bets wisely, and enjoy the ride as the 2025 NBA Playoffs take shape!

Bet Smart, Be Lucky - Iggy -

 

 

 

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