That same day, general managers around the NBA picked the Heat to win the Southeast Division, so they know preseason when they see it. But there remains the matter of the Heat being Dwyane Wadeless as the season begins against the Detroit Pistons, a team that has become one of the Heats prime rivals. The Pistons are an early pick to return to the Finals, if not win the championship, but the Heat ought to be stoked: Since the Heat started last season with a 42-point loss at home to the Bulls, coach Pat Riley will have ample motivational material. See the fruits of practice at the American Airlines Arena (601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami) on Thursday at 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $10. Call 786-777-4667, or visit www.heat.com.
Thu., Nov. 1, 2007