The Heat are in stop-the-pain mode having lost three in a row. They were embarrassed by the Bucks, 128-99, last night in Milwaukee.

Charlotte, on the other hand, is fat and happy having won three straight after beating the Timberwolves, 121-113, on the road last night.

Miami is the No. 2 defensive team in the NBA. Minnesota ranks 28th defensively allowing 10 more points per game than the Heat.

The Hornets usually fail to step up against better teams, too, with a 12-25 record versus above .500 opponents.