Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Opening Night, October 29th, vs. Washington Wizards:
Opening Night is usually an easy game to look forward to. The hope of a new season, especially for the new look Heat, is something fans will easily get excited about.
In years past, a game with the Wizards wouldn’t be something to look forward to, but this isn’t the same old Wiz. Washington comes off an impressive 2013-14 the saw them finish 44-38 and advance to the second round of the playoffs. Although they lost Ariza to the Rockets, they bring back Marcin Gortat and brought in Paul Pierce to try to shore up an offense that struggled to function in the half-court during their playoff games against the Bulls and Pacers.
Washington comes into the season looking for a chance to usurp control in the Southeast Division and take another step towards the Eastern Conference Finals. With John Wall and Bradley Beal, the Wizards have a terrific one-two punch in the backcourt, which will allow Pierce to fill a complementary role and let him pick his shots.
For the Heat, this is a chance to unveil the new team, as well as show that they’re still a force to reckon with in the East. Putting the upstart Wizards in their place can help send a message that the Heat aren’t going to surrender their spot in the top half of the East without a fight.
Heat fans will also be able to show their appreciation to Wade, Bosh, Udonis Haslem, Mario Chalmers, Norris Cole, and Chris Andersen for staying in Miami and continuing the commitment to excellence the franchise has shown.