In a nail-biting finish, Jimmy Butler orchestrated a comeback to lead the Miami Heat (38-31) to a 107-104 triumph over the Cleveland Cavaliers (43-26).
Terry Rozier’s clutch performance in the final moments, including a decisive go-ahead 3-pointer, sealed the win for Miami, propelling them closer to the playoff spots in the Eastern Conference.
With both teams battling injuries, Butler’s 30-point outing and supported by Rozier’s 24 points proved pivotal in Miami’s victory.
Nikola Jovic, who was put in the starting lineup by head coach Erik Spoelstra, added 14 points for the Heat.
Despite missing key starters, the Cavaliers put up a resilient fight, with Jarrett Allen’s dominant double-double of 25 points and 20 rebounds leading the charge.
The absence of All-Star shooting guard Donovan Mitchell and forward Evan Mobley didn’t deter the Cavaliers, who fought tooth and nail until the final buzzer.
Miami capitalized on Cleveland’s defensive lapses and technical fouls in the second quarter, building a crucial lead that they managed to maintain throughout the intense contest.
