The Miami Heat had a busy off-season and now the games will begin with a tilt against the New Orleans Pelicans on Saturday.
The preseason opener will take place in Louisville, Kentucky with Miami listed as the home team. It begins what will be a seven-game stretch for the Heat before the regular season gets underway on October 29th.
Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh are both expected to start but will likely not play big minutes. The two biggest stars will be looking to get their legs stronger in game action. Still, injuries are always a concern and head coach Erik Spoelstra is likely to limit their playing time this early on. The same situation likely goes for other players such as Luol Deng and Mario Chalmers as well.
With the expected starting five playing in limited action, this game will give those vying for bench spots a chance to shine. Players such as James Ennis and Reggie Williams are likely going to be given extended looks. Several others should see big minutes as well and one game in a quick preseason could make or break their chances. There are 20 players in camp for the Heat and only 15 will make the final cut.
There are three guys who will not see time in this game as Josh McRoberts, Justin Hamilton and Chris Andersen are all listed as out for Saturday's game. McRoberts who signed via free agency during the off-season is recovering from toe surgery and could potentially miss the entire preseason. Hamilton had a recent scare with a heart flutter but should be back in the lineup soon. Andersen meanwhile is battling a calf injury but it is not expected to be an issue that keeps him out long.
Saturday's game will tip off at 7:30 p.m. and is not being televised locally.
