3 Way-too-early things from the Heat’s preseason slate to look forward to

The Miami Heat announced their 2024-25 preseason schedule. Here’s a way-too-early preview of what to look forward to in their exhibitions against the Atlanta Hawks, New Orleans Pelicans and San Antonio Spurs.

Oct. 10 vs Atlanta Hawks: These division rivals could look very different by mid-October. The Hawks own the No. 1 pick in the draft and could trade one of (or both) Trae Young and Dejounte Murray this summer. They are also reportedly open to shopping Clint Capela and De’Andre Hunter. In other words, it could be a Hawks makeover. The Heat may or may not have Jimmy Butler next season. They may or may not have added a star like Donovan Mitchell to the roster. Or maybe they’re Young’s next team… Either way, this will be the first glimpse at two teams that could look very different.

Oct. 13 vs New Orleans Pelicans: Take it from me, if Zion Williamson plays, he’s worth the price of preseason admission. Pelicans GM David Griffin has made it clear he’s ready to make a roster upgrade this offseason and he’s known in league circles to be creative and aggressive. All signs point to 2023-24 being Brandon Ingram’s last season in New Orleans. Who can the Pelicans turn Ingram into? As for the Heat, guys like Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro have played well against the Pelicans in the past. 

Oct. vs 15 San Antonio Spurs: Duncan Robinson vs Victor Wembanyama. But, really, Bam Adebayo vs Wembanyama. Or maybe Jimmy Butler’s early return to Miami? JK (right?). Anyway, the allure to this matchup is obvious: A chance to see Wembanyama beginning his second season and perhaps a dress rehearsal for a bounce-back season for the Heat.