Overview
- Memphis ended the preseason 1-4 after outshooting Miami 52.9% from the field and 51.3% from three with 20 makes, while the Heat finished 0-6.
- Ty Jerome left in the first quarter with a right calf injury and will be evaluated in Memphis, complicating a guard group already missing Ja Morant in the preseason and Scotty Pippen Jr. with a toe issue.
- Jaylen Wells led with 21 points, rookie Javon Small added 16 points and five assists on 4-of-5 from deep, and GG Jackson scored 13 in the fourth quarter as Jaren Jackson Jr. posted 16.
- Rotation clarity is emerging with Wells and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope tracking as starting wings and Jock Landale expected at center, while first-rounder Cedric Coward develops in early minutes.
- Defensive worries linger after allowing 59.6 paint points per game in the preseason, even as the finale showcased improved spacing and shotmaking heading into the Oct. 22 opener.