Dragic pronounces himself good to go; McGruder shines as Heat fall in Charlotte: A year ago, Erik Spoelstra might not have had a choice when it came to force-feeding preseason minutes to point guard Goran Dragic. He knew that he somehow had to get his starting point guard in regular-season shape. Thursday night, Dragic was given the night off as the Heat fell 96-88 to the Charlotte Hornets at the Spectrum Center -- with no concerns about Dragic being ready for Wednesday's season opener against the Orlando Magic. -- South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Erik Spoelstra informs Goran Dragic no truth to Kings trade rumor: Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra took the somewhat extraordinary step Thursday of confirming to Goran Dragic that there was no truth to the recent report of the guard being part of trade discussions with the Sacramento Kings. While the Heat typically dismiss trade rumors, Dragic said Spoelstra spoke to him about the latest swirl during the morning shootaround at the Spectrum Center, in advance of Thursday night's exhibition against the Charlotte Hornets. -- South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Miami Heat to face next roster deadline on Saturday: Even as the Miami Heat close out their preseason schedule they already find themselves on the clock, with a 5 p.m. Saturday deadline for their next round of cuts. While NBA rosters do not have to be trimmed to the regular-season limit of 15 until Monday at 5 p.m., players must clear the 48-hour waiver process by that deadline in order for teams to avoid additional salary obligations. In addition, for teams looking to directly assign "affiliate" players to their NBA Development League affiliate, those cuts must also be made by 5 p.m. Saturday. -- South Florida Sun-Sentinel