The Sept. 26 baseline still holds: a win-now frontcourt with the same health and guard questions. On Sept. 26, Hoops Rumors relayed Chiang's report that Thompson could lead the race for the final starting spot because of his shooting. It also relayed the team's announcement that camp Ian Schieffelin signed an Exhibit 10 deal. Hot Hot Hoops published Sept. 25 analysis of young Pelle Larsson and his extension. Talk about veteran D'Angelo Russell still traces to one suggestion from Sun Sentinel reporter Ira Winderman after Memphis waived him, with no official transaction. No shared minutes or outside projection followed, so confidence holds.
Miami is 0-0, with five preseason practices starting Oct. 3 at Toronto, and selling size before chemistry. Miami Heat forward Giannis Antetokounmpo and starting center Bam Adebayo make this a win-now swing despite sharing zero minutes.
Watch Antetokounmpo's knee participation, Adebayo's back participation, clarity on Wiggins, the 15th roster spot and opponents' shooting and paint scoring in the first month. The new size must defend, not just pose.
An extended absence for Antetokounmpo or Adebayo, clear proof that the pairing cannot space the floor, or 20 games of soft rim protection breaks the thesis.