Miami Heat Keys to Victory vs. Toronto Raptors

The Miami Heat (25-28) return from the All-Star break looking to build momentum against the Toronto Raptors (17-38). Miami holds a 2-1 record against Toronto this season, averaging 117 PPG in those matchups. However, their one loss came when they allowed 68 points in the paint and let RJ Barrett explode for 37 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. To secure a third win over the Raptors, the Heat must focus on these three key areas:

1. Bam Adebayo Must Set the Tone in the Paint

When Bam Adebayo is aggressive, the Heat control the game. In Miami’s two wins over Toronto, he dominated inside:

21 points, 16 rebounds, 5 assists (Dec. 12, 2024)
14 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists (Nov. 29, 2024)

Toronto struggles defensively, ranking 25th in opponent points per game, but they’re tied with Miami for 12th in three-point defense (35.7% allowed). That means Miami can’t simply rely on outside shooting—they must attack the interior.

With Jakob Poeltl questionable, Toronto could be vulnerable in the paint. Adebayo needs to be assertive early, and Miami should look to get downhill with Tyler Herro, Kel’el Ware, and Andrew Wiggins (if available) attacking mismatches.

2. Win the Turnover & Rebounding Battles

The Heat have been most successful against Toronto when controlling possessions. The Raptors are an inconsistent offensive team and forcing them into mistakes will be key. Miami needs to be disciplined in transition defense while taking care of the ball themselves to avoid giving up easy points.

Rebounding is just as important. The Raptors have length and athleticism, and second-chance points could be a deciding factor. Miami must gang rebound, especially with Toronto being aggressive on the glass. If the Heat secure defensive rebounds and push the pace, they can dictate the tempo instead of letting the Raptors control the game physically.

Miami has seen numerous games get away from them this season and these two areas will be crucial, not only in their first game back from break, but the rest of the season.

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3. Containing RJ Barrett & Toronto’s Offense

RJ Barrett torched Miami in their lone loss, putting up 37 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. The Heat cannot let him get comfortable again. This is where Andrew Wiggins and Davion Mitchell—if available—could make an impact.

Wiggins provides length and defensive versatility, making him a strong option to shadow Barrett and disrupt his rhythm.
Mitchell brings elite on-ball defense, which can help slow down Toronto’s backcourt and make it harder for Barrett to get easy looks.

If Miami’s perimeter defense holds up and they don’t allow Barrett to take over, the Raptors will have to look to their secondary options (Scottie Barnes, Gradey Dick), and ultimately struggle to keep up offensively.

Extra Notes

Davion Mitchell’s first game vs former team
Miami is 64-43 all time against Toronto in the regular season
Raptors Injuries: Brandon Ingram: out (ankle), P.J. Tucker: out (personal), Jakob Poeltl: day to day (hip).
Heat Injuries: Dru Smith: out for season (achilles), Terry Rozier: day to day (illness), Kevin Love: day to day (personal), Andrew Wiggins: day to day (illness), Bam Adebayo: day to day (knee).

Final Thoughts

Miami has the blueprint to beat Toronto but must stay disciplined defensively, win the possession battle, and attack the paint to secure a win. If Adebayo is aggressive, the Heat limit turnovers and second-chance points, and Wiggins/Mitchell help slow down Barrett, Miami should come out of Toronto with a much-needed victory.

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Miami Heat Keys to Victory vs. Toronto Raptors