Giannis after Edwards’ 45-point night: “It’s demoralizing”

Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 35 points weren’t enough to make his Miami Heat debut a success. After a lopsided 131-106 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Greek star identified trust and intensity as the first areas to address.

We have to trust each other. When things aren’t going our way, we have to respond. Tonight, we didn’t do that. We have to give more effort, starting with me. I’m the one who sets the tone

Giannis Antetokounmpo

It was primarily the shooting of Anthony Edwards and LaMelo Ball that overwhelmed Miami. Edwards finished with 45 points on 9-of-17 shooting from three, while Ball added 21 points and five 3-pointers.

They have two players who can make demoralizing shots. You have to keep playing when that happens. When Edwards started making shots, we got discouraged, and everything became easier for them. We have to be more physical when opponents find their rhythm

Giannis Antetokounmpo

The Heat shot just 24% from three and were soundly outrebounded 52-34, with the Wolves holding a commanding 17-4 edge on the offensive glass. The chemistry is still a work in progress: the starting lineup had played only two preseason games together, and several players stressed the need for more communication on the court.

We have to get better and trust each other more. It’s only one game, but our offense and defense looked completely different from the preseason

Giannis Antetokounmpo

Giannis’ Miami Heat debut didn’t go as hoped, largely thanks to an outstanding performance from Anthony Edwards.