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Harris, Nets hope to cool Heat

Dec 20, 2008 - 2:59 PM Miami (13-12) at New Jersey (13-12), 8:00 p.m. EST

EAST RUTHERFORD, New Jersey (Ticker) -- The New Jersey Nets have enjoyed a surprising amount of success in what was supposed to be a rebuilding season. They have yet to enjoy similar results on their homecourt, though.

After an emotional win against an old foe, Devin Harris and the Nets seek back-to-back wins at the IZOD Center for the first time this season when they host the Miami Heat on Saturday.

Harris had 41 points and 13 assists, while Vince Carter had 34 points, 10 rebounds and six assists to help New Jersey roll over Jason Kidd and the Dallas Mavericks on Friday.

Kidd was dealt to the Mavericks for a package that included Harris midway through the 2007-08 campaign, and many tabbed the Nets as a team to struggle immensely this season. However, they have turned out an 8-4 record on the road, but just a 5-8 mark at home.

A major reason for the Nets' respectable record stems from the breakout season of Harris, who is averaging 24.5 points in 22 contests. The former Wisconsin standout averaged 14.4 points in 39 games with Dallas before being traded.

Miami has received a similar boost from star Dwyane Wade, who poured in 35 points - his NBA-leading 11th 30-point game of the season - in the Heat's 89-87 win over the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday.

The Heat, who had lost three in a row, are 5-7 on the road this season.