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The Miami Heat opened their NBA preseason schedule on Saturday against the Toronto Raptors, and the team looked noticeably different from last season. One major change is the presence of Giannis Antetokounmpo, who now serves as a key force in the frontcourt.
In Antetokounmpo's preseason debut for Miami, head coach Erik Spoelstra came away most impressed with the star's playmaking ability. "With the size and the vision and his ability just to put it on the numbers, you know, to your shooters, is really impressive," Spoelstra said. "You know, Pat was at practice all week, and the way he's played with the ball in his hands and delivering the ball reminds all of us of a great big point guard that played for Pat back in the 80s."
That big point guard Spoelstra referenced is Magic Johnson. The comparison came after Antetokounmpo recorded seven assists in only 14 minutes during Miami's 129-105 preseason win over Toronto. His passing stood out even more than his nine points, and Spoelstra was particularly struck by how the 10-time All-Star created shots for his teammates.
All seven of Antetokounmpo's assists led directly to 3-pointers. He connected with Andrew Wiggins four times, while Bam Adebayo, Davion Mitchell and Tim Hardaway Jr. also benefited from his passing. Most of the assists followed a similar pattern: Antetokounmpo attacked the basket, drew attention from multiple defenders and kicked the ball out to an open teammate.
Against the Raptors, Antetokounmpo did not need a heavy scoring load to impact the game. He shot 3-for-3 from the field, grabbed four rebounds and made three of four free throws.
The Heat will continue their preseason schedule on Thursday against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Key Analysis
Spoelstra's comparison to Magic Johnson highlights how Antetokounmpo's court vision and unselfishness can elevate Miami's offense. If he continues to create open looks at this rate, the Heat's shooters could thrive alongside him.
Originally reported by yahoo.