Hornets in Miami today to take on Dwyane Wade and the Heat. Our guys looking to build on their current three-game winning streak and coming off impressive wins over the Suns and Hawks. How will they fare on the road? Game tips at 5 p.m. Central.

Miami were riding high after starting the season 7-2, but have since dropped three straight games. They last played in Toronto on Friday, losing 113-120 despite Wade scoring 30. The Heat have been giving up a lot of points recently, with their opponents going for 100+ in four of the last five.

Starting Heat forward Udonis Haslem has missed the last two games with a shoulder injury. The Miami Herald lists him as probable for today’s game, while Quentin Richardson is doubtful with a back injury. According to Peninsula is Mightier, the absence of those two guys is a big reason for Miami’s defensive struggles of late.

Linkage:

• Rival bloggers: Hot Hot Hoops | Peninsula is Mightier | South Florida Sun-Sentinel

(Many thanks to Dariusz for the banner.)