San Antonio Spurs vs Miami Heat
PREVIEW: The San Antonio Spurs arrive at this matchup undefeated at 4-0, while the Miami Heat have won three consecutive games to improve to 3-1. San Antonio's defense has been elite, leading the league in defensive efficiency while allowing just 104.5 points per contest. The Spurs play at a slow tempo (26th) but rank first in frequency attacking the rim, while their offensive spacing is limited (27th). Victor Wembanyama has been dominant through four games, averaging 31 points and 13.8 rebounds.
Miami leads the entire NBA in scoring at 131.5 points per game while playing at a much faster pace than in previous seasons. The Heat excel defensively by allowing few shots at the rim and rank second in that category, though they allow an average frequency of three-point attempts at 23rd. Miami has beaten San Antonio in five straight head-to-head meetings, though this was before Wembanyama became the transformative force he is today. The Spurs enter as 5.5-point favorites in what shapes up as a significant test for both teams early in the season.