It’s the first official game for the Heat since the restart and they will already have their hands full in this matchup. Denver (43-22 Overall, 26-13 Conf) comes into the game with a deeper roster. All-Star center Nikola Jokic has made gradual improvements with conditioning in the scrimmage matches after contracting COVID-19. The Nuggets will have Bol Bol at their disposal too. The former 2nd round pick has been aggressive since the restart and has been averaging 15 points so far. His size and scoring ability could give the Denver the option the ability to make a troublesome “Big” lineup consisting of Jokic potentially at a guard position. This lineup was used earlier in one of their scrimmages.
The Heat (41-24 Overall, 28-10 Conf.) have also been impacted by COVID-19 with several players including All-Star Bam Adebayo contracting the virus. Miami greatly benefited from using their scrimmages to condition players as well as giving fringe players game time. Tyler Herro has looked great despite recovering from injury before the COVID-19 postponement. Kendrick Nunn has had a quiet start since the restart due to contracting COVID-19 but has made progress. Miami will have their hands full dealing with Denver’s quality in depth.
This game will be scrappy because of the general rust that many players may have due to a lack of game time. Miami will be clear underdogs that will not only have to physically tough in the paint but also focused on executing on offense to upset Denver in this matchup. The game will be air on ESPN. Tip-off is at 1 pm on 8/1
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