In the NBA preseason opener, Miami routed the Toronto Raptors 129–105 in a game played in Quebec, Canada. The “Greek Freak”—wearing number 7 following his historic trade from Milwaukee—played just 14 minutes during the first half, yet that time was enough to deliver an impeccable performance.
The game became a blowout early on, allowing Miami to pull its starters after the first two quarters. Antetokounmpo played only the first half, but his presence was sufficient to demonstrate the potential the Heat gains from one of the summer’s biggest moves.
His first basket for Miami came in the first quarter; the forward received the ball near the rim, converted a layup, and completed the play with an additional free throw.
That wasn’t his only notable offensive contribution. In another play that could become a common sight this season, Antetokounmpo drove into the paint and kicked the ball out to the perimeter, setting up Andrew Wiggins for a three-pointer. The combination of the Greek star’s drives and his teammates’ outside shooting was a highlight of his debut.
Antetokounmpo was perfect from the field, making all three of his attempts. He did not take any three-pointers and made three of four free throws.
