The Heat started two rookies -- guard Mario Chalmers and forward Michael Beasley -- on opening night for only the third time in franchise history. It was the first time that happened since 2003 when Miami started Dwyane Wade and Udonis Haslem, and the third time it happened in franchise history. Miami started Rony Seikaly and Kevin Edwards in 1988, the first game in Heat history.
Chalmers' start was a bit of a surprise because Chris Quinn seemed to have the lead for most of training camp. But Chalmers came up big with 17 points, seven rebounds and eight assists. Beasley wasn't as fortunate. He finished with nine points (on 4-for-14 shooting) and four rebounds. And although he battled foul problems during pre-season he didn't commit any fouls Wednesday. That might indicate he was being too careful.
"Michael struggled offensively, but I wasn't even looking at that side of the ball," coach Erik Spoelstra said.
Still, Miami will likely stick with the two rookies because as it adjusts to playing "small ball" and a speed game, these two fit the mold very nicely.
"Everybody told me before the game, 'Don't be anxious,'" Chalmers said. "I just took deep breaths and focused on running the offense."
KNICKS 120, HEAT 115: New York used its up-tempo style to show Miami how that game is really played in the season opener for both team. The Heat, which would like to play that style, trailed by 21 in the fourth quarter when it closed within three on what coach Erik Spoelstra called a "desperation situation."
Miami, which is missing its top three-point shooter, James Jones (wrist), was just 6-for-23 on three-pointers.
