The Miami Heat and New Orleans Pelicans meet on February 11, 2026 in what could be a compelling late-season test ahead of the All-Star break. Miami comes in with a 28-27 record and has been a resilient team despite some recent struggles, including a loss to the Boston Celtics where they squandered a big lead. The Heat rank among the better rebounding teams in the league, which gives them an edge controlling possession and limiting second-chance opportunities. They also shook off some bad outings to stay competitive, and their 125-106 victory over the Pelicans in early January shows they can impose their will offensively when shots fall. Bam Adebayo continues anchoring the paint with near double-double production, and sharpshooting from the perimeter — particularly from Norman Powell and Andrew Wiggins — helps stretch defenses. That blend of physicality inside and perimeter scoring makes Miami a multifaceted opponent. New Orleans, meanwhile, has a 15-40 record with a 9-19 mark at home, but recent results have been better as they snapped a slump with back-to-back wins that included a decisive 120-94 victory over Sacramento and a close comeback against Minnesota.

Trey Murphy III has been a key contributor on the wing with high scoring efficiency, and Zion Williamson’s play around the rim gives the Pelicans a dangerous inside-out option. The Pelicans’ offense sits in the mid-110s in points per game, and while they aren’t an elite defensive unit, they do have the length and athleticism to contest shots and force turnovers. Injuries and roster moves — such as the trading of Jose Alvarado — have altered rotation dynamics, but New Orleans has shown growth in ball movement and offensive chemistry in recent games. If the Pelicans can defend consistently and avoid lapses that Miami will exploit, this could be close for longer than expected. Ultimately, this game pits Miami’s structured, disciplined approach against New Orleans’s emerging offensive flows. The Heat’s ability to rebound, defend the paint, and limit turnovers could give them the edge, but the Pelicans have shown flashes of high scoring and competitive grit. How each team manages foul trouble, bench contributions, and execution in clutch moments will matter, and whether New Orleans can slow Miami early will go a long way toward shaping the final outcome.

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