Heat Take Floor for First Time Tonight

The Heat are finally official as they hit the floor to face the Pistons in their preseason opener.  They are getting to open in the safe zone of Miami, Florida.  I can't imagine they will get a warm reception at very many visiting venues this year, as Lebron James fan appreciation has dropped off significantly after what he did in Cleveland this summer.  After the first quarter, James seems to be dominating with 12 points, but is not his usual self with just one assist and one rebound early.  The starting lineup of Carlos Arroyo, Joel Anthony and the Three Amigos was very interesting.  Joel Anthony is not a strong player, and Carlos Arroyo has been in and out of the NBA and traded around quite often. Obviously Mario Chalmers should be the starter when his ankle is 100 percent, but we will see. The Pistons don't look much better than last year and have not made significant improvements to the team, but with the announcement that Mike Illitch, owner of the Red Wings (NHL) and Tigers (MLB) is set to purchase the team, don't expect them to stay quiet for long.  Illitch will now be the only current owner of three teams in the four major sports of hockey, football, baseball and basketball.  I don't think he would even want to touch the Lions though.