clock menu more-arrow no yes mobile

Filed under:

Raptors aim to win season series against the Miami Heat

The Toronto Raptors try to match their team record of 48 wins set last season as they take on the Miami Heat tonight.

Tom Szczerbowski-USA TODAY Sports

Where to Watch: NBA TV (National), Sportsnet 360 (Toronto), Sun Sport (Miami).

Where to Listen: Newstalk 1010 (Toronto), 104.3 The Ticket / S (Miami)

What a thriller it was in Orlando Friday night! With poor defense and some sloppy play down the stretch, the Raptors somehow managed to escape Orlando with a close win thanks Lou Williams' dagger three-pointer.

With that game behind them, the Raptors continue their four game road trip making a stop at American Airlines Arena to take on the former NBA Champions, Miami Heat. They'll try to win for the first time at the Arena since Nov. 18, 2008.

Way back at the beginning of March in the teams' secont meeting, Toronto looked confident in their capabilities as they had no problem burning down the Miami Heat. That victory was their first against the Heat in five seasons as the Raps snapped a16-game losing streak against the club.

As for injuries, Kyle Lowry returned Friday night after missing seven games with back spasms. He scored 10 points and dished out seven assists however the close game forced coach Dwane Casey to play him for 33 minutes, which was a major concern down the stretch. Lowry should be good to go for tonight however Amir Johnson continues to sit out with a sprained right ankle, an injury that's plagued him as of late. Look for Tyler Hansborough to get the start.

At stake for the Raps Saturday night is a chance to secure home court advantage as they enter the NBA playoffs. However it seems Miami has more at stake as they have three games remaining and sit tenth in the Eastern Conference. Look for a desperate team to come out strong throughout as they try to make a playoff push despite an array of injuries and illnesses.

What do you think? Fire up in the comments below!