The Bucks face the Heat in a critical play-in game, missing Giannis but relying on key backups against a hot Miami team.

The Milwaukee Bucks host the Miami Heat in a pivotal Eastern Conference play-in game on February 24, 2026, as both teams battle for playoff positioning. The Bucks, coming off a 122-94 loss to the Raptors, are without Giannis Antetokounmpo due to a calf injury but have leaned on Kevin Porter Jr., Ryan Rollins, and Cam Thomas for scoring. The Heat, winners of three straight including a 136-120 win over Memphis, are healthy and led by Andrew Wiggins, Norman Powell, and Tyler Herro. Miami’s offensive depth and cohesion have fueled their surge, while Milwaukee aims to regroup during a key stretch of Eastern Conference opponents. The last meeting in November saw Miami win 106-103 without Antetokounmpo, with Herro scoring 29. The game is a crucial test in the tight playoff race.