Anthony Edwards’ historic 45-point season debut powered Minnesota past Miami, 131-106, spoiling Giannis Antetokounmpo’s first game with the Heat. Antetokounmpo led Miami with 35 points, but the Heat couldn’t contain Edwards and LaMelo Ball as Minnesota opened the season with a decisive road win.

By the Numbers
  • Edwards scored 45 points, including a franchise-record nine 3-pointers in a season opener.
  • Ball added 21 points; the pair combined to make 14 of 30 3-point attempts.
  • Miami shot 8-for-32 from 3-point range; Antetokounmpo finished with 35 points and six rebounds.
  • Edwards became the third NBA player with multiple 40-point season openers, after Wilt Chamberlain (four) and Michael Jordan (three).
Yes, But

Antetokounmpo delivered a strong debut and matched Edwards with 21 first-half points. Miami’s bigger issue was its backcourt defense, which failed to slow Edwards or Ball.

What’s Next

Miami will look for its first win Friday against Detroit. Minnesota, now 1-0, stays in Florida to face Orlando.

Bottom Line

Antetokounmpo’s arrival gives Miami a major new weapon, but Minnesota’s opener showed that the Heat need better perimeter defense to make the most of him.