For tonight's match, we are travelling to Miami, where we will watch a cross-conference match-up between Miami Heat and Phoenix Suns. The match will take place at the American Airlines Arena, and it will be the 2nd H2H match between Suns and Heat.

Miami Heat are currently 10th in the East, with an overall record of 26-32 and a 1-4 record in their last 5 games. In the course of those 5 games, Heat managed to defeat Dallas Mavericks (101:112), but failed to do the same against GSW (120:118), Denver Nuggets (103:87), 76ers (106:102) and most recently Detroit Pistons (96:119). Furthermore, their bad run extends into their last 10 games, as the Heat only managed to win 2 of those 10 matches. Heading into the next match, Miami Heat have got 3 players that are doubtful to appear; McGruder, Winslow and Johnson.

Phoenix Suns on the other side are currently the last team in the West with an overall record of 11-50 and a 0-5 in their last 5 games. Looking at their recent 5 games, Suns have been defeated by GSW (107:117), Sacramento Kings (117:104), LA Clippers (134:107), Cleveland Cavaliers (111:98) and Atlanta Hawks (120:112). Their most recent match against Atlanta Hawks could have easily ended in Sun's favour, however, due to a poor performance in the last quarter, the Phoenix side lost yet another match that was more than winnable. This defeat was their 17th straight defeat in the league and at this point, it seems like Suns are bound to finish the season with less than 15 wins.

As we look at these two teams, neither really scream quality. Miami are 2-8 in the last 10 games, while Suns are 0-17 in their last 17 games. Heading into this match, Heat are 10th in the East and with only 2 games separating them from the playoffs spot, they potentially have got a chance to end in the top 8, but first, they would need to defeat Phoenix Suns, who look hopeless. While Miami has McGruder, Winslow and Johnson all questionable to appear tonight, Phoenix Suns will miss TJ Warren. Looking at the Sun's last match, they were extremely close to achieving a rare win, but as said the last quarter was poorly executed which resulted in Hawks passing them and ultimately won the match. At this point, it's clear that Suns are desperate for a win and the opportunities for them to do so are rare. They missed one against the poor Hawks, however, Suns will get another chance tonight as they face off against Miami Heat, who are not really among the "top dogs" in the league, especially with the performances they have shown us recently. Despite Miami still being considered a favourite to win tonight, let's check what will work in Phoenix Sun's favour.

If Winslow ends up sidelined for Miami, it would mean Dragic will need to step up and play, despite not being 100% after the injury. In addition, we have seen Tyler Johnson performing exceptionally well in the match against Atlanta, when he scored 29 points, had 4 assists and 5 rebounds. With the best game of the season behind him, we expect this to extend into the next game against Heat. And lastly, Suns, or better yet Kokoskov will need to start producing wins, if he wishes to keep the job. With a lot of pressure on Suns to perform and win, I would not be surprised, if Suns manage to upset Miami Heat tonight and walk away with the first win since January 13th.

Prediction: Phoenix Suns to win
Alternative prediction: Phoenix Suns +8.50 points