This loss for Miami not only highlighted their recent struggles but also underscored the impact of injuries and lineup changes on their performance.

With this victory, Orlando now leads the season series against Miami 1-0, having previously defeated them 116-97 in their last encounter.

The Miami Heat faced off against the Orlando Magic on December 21, 2024, at the Kia Center in Orlando, marking a significant matchup in the Eastern Conference.

The Heat were without star player Jimmy Butler due to a stomach illness, and backup center Kevin Love was also absent for personal reasons.

However, Miami faltered dramatically in the fourth quarter, scoring only 8 points compared to the Magic's 37, shooting just 11.1% from the field.

Cole Anthony was a standout for the Magic, scoring 35 points, including 13 in the fourth quarter, while Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro combined for 45 points for the Heat but managed only 3 points in the final period.

The game concluded with the Heat suffering a 121-114 loss to the Magic, marking their third consecutive defeat and extending their losing streak.

Entering the game, Miami held a record of 13 wins and 12 losses, while Orlando boasted a slightly better record of 17 wins and 12 losses.

In a notable move, Miami's head coach Erik Spoelstra introduced Dru Smith and Nikola Jovic into the starting lineup, marking the team's fifth different starting lineup in just 26 games.

The Heat started strong, scoring 76 points in the first half and leading by as many as 25 points, showcasing their best offensive performance of the season.

Despite their early lead, the Heat collapsed, allowing the Magic to mount a comeback with a 26-3 run, ultimately taking a 110-109 lead with just under three minutes remaining.

The Magic, despite missing key players like Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner due to injuries, capitalized on Miami's struggles to secure the win.