Heat Keep Playoff Hopes Alive With Win

The Miami Heat had their backs against the wall and responded with a 100-93 win over the Orlando Magic on Monday.

Miami would have been eliminated from playoff contention with a loss to Orlando or a win by the Brooklyn Nets. The Heat managed to avoid both those scenarios as the Nets fell to the Chicago Bulls.

For the Heat to make the playoffs, a lot will need to fall into place. Besides needing a win over the Philadelphia 76ers in its next game, Miami will also need to hope for losses from the Indiana Pacers and Nets.

Miami held a huge 18-point advantage heading into the fourth quarter and has been the norm, it nearly blew that lead. Orlando ended up making a game of things in the final quarter in yet another tough match-up. Orlando gave Miami several battles this year despite being one of the worst teams in the NBA.

Orlando's next game could be critical for Miami as it will come against Brooklyn. Depending on other results, that game could determine whether the Heat are sent home early this year. The Magic will need to pick up the win on the road as the game will take place in Brooklyn.

Dwyane Wade stepped up once again when he was needed most with 22 points and five assists along with a couple of blocks. Wade also did fine work from the charity stripe by sinking six of his seven tries.

Goran Dragic continued to be an asset for Miami with 13 points and eight assists. His effort along with Hassan Whiteside's 24 points and 13 rebounds helped Miami pick up the must-win.