G Chris Quinn will probably win the job, but Miami wants to be more dynamic there. Quinn is solid, gets the offense into position and takes the open shot. Coach Erik Spoelstra called him "rock solid and efficient," which is accurate, but the Heat wants more.

G Dwayne Wade is a superstar, and he'll be asked the play that way every night. The burden on Wade will be the heaviest of his career, but if he stays healthy, he'll likely deliver.

F Shawn Marion hasn't yet found his niche as a double-double guy. It's tough to predict how he'll fit in with Miami's new up-tempo offense. He could play either power forward or small forward.

F Udonis Haslem sets the physical disposition. He's crucial. It'll be interesting to see if he eventually starts at center to open a spot in the starting lineup for rookie F Michael Beasley.

C Mark Blount appears set to be the opening night starter, but it's unknown how long he holds that job. Either way Blount will be in the rotation.

ANALYZING KEY RESERVES:

F Michael Beasley would be a starter if his defense were better. He'll get plenty of minutes.

F James Jones is the three-point shooter and a good perimeter defender. He'll be in the rotation once he returns, which could be January or February.

G Marcus Banks will get minutes early. Who knows what happens when G Shaun Livingston returns?

F Yakhouba Diawara will likely get minutes because of his perimeter defense.

MEDICAL WATCH:

F James Jones (torn tendon in right wrist) is expected to be out until early in 2009.

F Dorell Wright (knee surgery), the first-round pick in 2004, probably won't be ready until early November.

G Shaun Livingston (knee surgery) is practicing but no one knows how long before he's game ready. The best estimates are late November or December.

C Jamaal Magloire (broken bone, left hand) probably won't require surgery. He could return in late November.

C Alonzo Mourning (knee surgery) probably won't be ready until January.