What Is Most Important Factor Of Miami Heat's Five-Game Road Trip?

The Miami Heat were the talk of the offseason after revamping their roster by acquiring two-time MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo from the Milwaukee Bucks. 

They parted ways with four key players (Jaimie Jaquez, Kel'el Ware, Tyler Herro, Kasparas Jakucionis) so they could head a new direction. They also added Klay Thompson, Bobby Portis and Tim Hardaway Jr. 

With so much change, the Heat have only had a few months to get acquainted with each other. The first opportunity during the season comes now as they head out for a five-game, West Coast road trip. Teams of the past have often said the season doesn't begin until the players are away from their homes and family for a couple weeks. 

This is where they can pick up some of each other's habits, good and bad. So the bonding experience began when the team flew to Los Angeles Sunday before facing the Lakers Monday at Crypto.com Arena. 

Here's a breakdown of the trip: 

Monday At Lakers

This game should conjure memories of last season's meeting in March in Miami. That's when Lakers star Luka Doncic went off for 60 points, leading his team to victory. There really is no way to slow Doncic other than hopefully making him take a few bad shots. That's basically what Heat star Bam Adebayo said after Sunday's practice. The key is preventing teammates from scoring over their averages. That's even harder now because Lakers guard Austin Reaves is starting to come into his own. He's averaging a career-high 23.5 points. 

Wednesday At Los Angeles Clippers 

This is among the most winnable games of the trip. The Clippers are in complete disarray after the offseason fiasco with Kawhi Leonard. At 1-4, they have gotten off to the poor start many expected. This should give guard Darius Garland to shine after being traded from the Cavaliers, where he was once considered a key cog. And rookie Keaton Wagler is showing promise early in his career. The future looks bright for him. 

Thursday At Golden State Warriors

Everyone talks about LeBron James' longevity but Warriors legend Stephen Curry doesn't get enough credit. In season No. 18, he is still one of the toughest covers in the league. And he's already off to a hot start. He's at 29.5 points a game, including a season-high 44 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. 

Sunday At Sacramento Kings

The Kings are led by arguably the most impressive rookie so far this season. Darius Acuff is having one of the quickest starts in NBA history. At 26.3 points a game, he is scoring like no first-year player has before. Of course, it's easier to put up huge numbers when the coaching staff has given you the green light. Acuff is averaging 24 shots. 

Tuesday At Utah Jazz 

The Jazz (1-5) have gotten off to a disappointing start because felt they could be a sleeper team in the West. They have a strong collection of young players, led by Keyonte George. Things could pick up once top draft pick Darryn Peterson catches on to the NBA game.