In a crucial matchup, Terry Rozier dropped 34 points to lead the Miami Heat (42-33) to a hard-fought 109-99 victory over the New York Knicks (44-31) on Tuesday night.
Rozier’s exceptional shooting, including 8-for-11 from beyond the arc, propelled the Heat to a much-needed win as they continue their push for a playoff berth in the Eastern Conference.
Despite a late surge from the Knicks, who narrowed a 16-point deficit to tie the game, Rozier’s clutch play down the stretch secured the victory for Miami.
Jimmy Butler contributed 17 points, while Bam Adebayo and Haywood Highsmith added 15 and 14 points respectively, providing crucial support for Rozier’s offensive outburst.
On the Knicks’ side, Donte DiVincenzo led the scoring with 31 points, followed by Deuce McBride with 24 points and Jalen Brunson with 20 points and 10 assists.
Despite the loss, the Knicks remain in contention for second place in the Eastern Conference, with their playoff aspirations still intact.
With the win, the Heat move within a half-game of the coveted No. 6 seed in the East, putting them in a strong position heading into the final stretch of the regular season.
The Heat’s victory also benefits the Orlando Magic, who leapfrogged the Knicks into the No. 4 spot in the East, thanks to the head-to-head tiebreaker.
