76ers vs Heat Odds, Spread and Picks for Game 1

76ers narrowly escaped blowing a 3-0 lead against Toronto after coming up with a big win in Game 6 up North. Joel Embiid is injured and could miss the rest of the series. James Harden needs to step up and carry the offensive load. Tyrese Maxey needs also to keep showing out. The second-year guard has shown glimpses of brilliance throughout the season.

Miami beat Atlanta in the playoffs. Jimmy Butler missed Game 5 and Kyle Lowry is injured. Victor Oladipo impressed when he stepped into the first unit. Miami is going to take advantage of Joel Embiid's absence and control the boards in Game 1. The Heat are one of the best two-way teams in NBA playoffs and they will be a handful for Philly.

The Heat won't lose at FTX Arena in the series opener. Miami is not at full strength, but they will comfortably cover the spread. The Sixers will take some time to adjust without their MVP finalist.