Thursday Nov. 16 vs Brooklyn Nets
Biggest storyline:
The Brooklyn Nets have revamped their roster through a series of major trades and offseason acquisitions. In addition to these moves, the team has also signed four players to minimum contracts during the current offseason. These players include Dennis Smith Jr., Lonnie Walker IV, Darius Bazley, and Trendon Watford. Smith Jr. was brought in for his strong point-of-attack defense and driving skills and is expected to serve as the backup point guard.
Walker's ability to create shots and shoot from beyond the arc will be valuable for a team that needs more scoring options. However, with several other talented guards on the roster, it remains to be seen how much playing time he will receive.
Bazley and Watford are both versatile players who can handle the ball and play multiple positions. While they may not be elite shooters, they are still considered a threat and could potentially play as small-ball centers in the future. Bazley is the better shooter and defender of the two, which could give him an edge in earning playing time at the wing or power forward positions.
Toughest matchup:
In their first matchup (Nov. 1) of the season, Brooklyn's bench outscored Miami's 50 to 26. Nets reserves Trendon Watford (11 points), Armoni Brooks (17) and Lonnie Walker IV (17) paced Brooklyn's second unit and will again be key contributors in this one. Already without Tyler Herro, the Heat will need their second unit to step up.
Starting Lineup:
PG: Dennis Smith Jr. (If Ben Simmons remains out with a hip injury)
SG: Spencer Dinwiddie (Cam Thomas out)
SF: Mikal Bridges
PF: Cameron Johnson
C: Nic Claxton