Winless Heat bring league's 22nd-ranked defense to Atlanta

The winless Miami Heat (0-4), owners of the league's 22nd-ranked defense, visit the Atlanta Hawks (2-2) and the NBA's eighth-ranked offense on Wednesday, October 28, at 7:00 PM ET.

The Heat defense gives up 115.6 points per 100 possessions, and opponents shoot a 56.7 effective field goal percentage against it, 26th in the league. Atlanta scores 115.2 per 100, eighth, so the Hawks should find clean looks.

At the other end, Miami's offense is 27th at 103.5 and 25th in effective field goal percentage at 50. Atlanta's defense is ninth at 106.3.

Jalen Johnson runs the Hawks' offense. He averages 21.5 points, 9.8 rebounds and 8.3 assists, and leads the team in all three. Dyson Daniels averages 3.5 steals, and Atlanta forces turnovers on 17.1% of opponent possessions, second in the league.

Giannis Antetokounmpo carries Miami at 28.5 points and 9.5 rebounds a game, shooting 55.7% from the field. Davion Mitchell leads the Heat with 6.8 assists.

All four of Miami's games ended in losses by at least four points, most recently 109-113 to Dallas. The Heat also fell 111-128 to Detroit and 106-131 to Minnesota, and sit 14th in the East.

Atlanta has lost two straight to Houston, 114-121 at home and 110-120 on the road, after a 128-81 win at Charlotte.

Simone Fontecchio is doubtful for Miami, and Pelle Larsson is probable. For Atlanta, Mouhamed Gueye is out, and Aaron Wiggins is questionable. Four other Hawks are questionable as well.

Sportsbooks' prices give Atlanta a 58% chance to win. Keel's projection, built from the players available, puts it at 61%, with the Hawks favored by 3.6 points.