Heat take cautious approach: Giannis unlikely to debut in Canada

Miami Heat fans will likely need to wait before seeing Giannis Antetokounmpo in action. Ahead of the preseason opener in Quebec against the Toronto Raptors, Erik Spoelstra indicated that only “some” regulars will feature, and although Giannis is technically included in that group, his participation is considered highly unlikely. After just a week of training camp in Boca Raton, Miami appear intent on avoiding unnecessary risks, with Spoelstra expected to rest Antetokounmpo, Bam Adebayo and veterans Bobby Portis and Klay Thompson.

The Heat need bodies after injuries to Dru Smith and Keshad Johnson, yet the staff prefer a measured approach. With four additional friendlies scheduled, there is ample time for Giannis to adapt to the team’s structure. Miami also favour a home debut, roughly a week later, against the New Orleans Pelicans, a scenario with greater media impact. Even without Giannis, this preseason marks the beginning of a new era for the franchise.