Erik Spoelstra compares Giannis to Lakers legend after dominant Heat debut

Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra compared Giannis Antetokounmpo to Magic Johnson after Miami's first preseason game against the Raptors, praising his incredible size, court vision, and ability to deliver pinpoint passes to open shooters. Giannis Antetokounmpo made his long-awaited Miami Heat debut, and it didn't disappoint as he dominated in the first preseason win against the Toronto Raptors on Saturday night. Antetokounmpo played 14 minutes in this game, finishing with 9 points, 4 rebounds, and 7 assists on perfect 3/3 shooting from the field and 3/4 from the free throw line, leading the Heat to a 129-105 win. Following the victory, Antetokounmpo drew high praise from Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra . Spoelstra compared the two-time MVP to Los Angeles Lakers legend Magic Johnson, noting that his size and court vision evoke memories of the iconic point guard who once played under Heat president Pat Riley in LA. "The size and the vision and his ability to put it on the numbers to shooters is really impressive," Spoelstra said after the first preseason game, via Eric Nehm . "The way he's played with the ball in his hands and delivering the ball, (Giannis) reminds all of us of a great big point guard that played for Pat (Riley) back in the 80s." Heat continue preseason preparations After a win on Saturday against the Raptors, the Heat will play four more preseason games before the start of the 2026-27 NBA regular season. The Heat will play their next preseason game on October 8, when they face the New Orleans Pelicans in Miami. The team will then close out its exhibition schedule with matchups against the Minnesota Timberwolves, Brooklyn Nets, and Orlando Magic. Support BasketNews so we could make even better content. If you like our content, please click here and add us as your preferred source . It helps us a lot, and we are committed to delivering you the very latest basketball news.