REF’s picks

The Miami Heat return home desperate to snap an early three-game slide, and hosting a short-handed Dallas squad gives them the ideal bounce-back spot. With Kyrie Irving questionable and several rotation pieces sidelined, the Mavericks will struggle to match Miami's depth and defensive intensity at the Kaseya Center. Back the Heat to cover the 7.5-point spread as they establish control early.

1. 1Miami is eager to reverse a winless start to the campaign and features a potent lineup anchored by Giannis Antetokounmpo and Bam Adebayo.
2. 2Dallas is dealing with significant roster absences and potential injury concerns for key creators like Kyrie Irving.
3. 3Early-season defensive lapses and cold shooting stretches from the Heat could keep the visitors within striking distance if shots start falling.

REF's own opinion, not a guarantee — nothing here is financial or betting advice, and the call is always yours.