Mateo's Hoop Diary: Heat Lose Season Opener in Orlando
The Heat suffered a narrow loss in their season opener against the Magic in Orlando, marking their 10th season opener between the two teams.
One of the significant issues for the Heat was their inability to prevent the Magic from getting to the free-throw line, particularly in the fourth quarter, where they attempted 14 free throws and made 13.
Norman Powell made a strong impression in his debut with the Heat, providing much-needed firepower. He made deep jumpers and set up teammates Bam Adebayo and Davion Mitchell for scoring opportunities.
- Powell drained deep jumpers and assisted on a screen roll to Adebayo and a drive-and-kick play to Mitchell in the first five minutes.
- Desmond Bane also had a strong start for the Magic, making jumpers and layups in his first stint with the team.
The Heat built a brief 12-point lead with the help of 3-point shots, but the Magic increased their intensity and cut the lead to just one point going into the second quarter.
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Author's summary: Heat loses season opener to Magic due to free-throw line struggles.