Heat coach Pat Riley wants a new stopper on the perimeter.

Kendall Gill is his man.

Gill was handed the starting small forward job that Riley kept secret throughout training camp, and his first assignment was against Vince Carter, the league's fifth leading scorer last season.

Carter scored a quiet 20 points and was hardly a factor in the Heat's 97-92 victory over the Toronto Raptors.

"I like this role," said Gill, who scored five points. "I've been a scorer my whole career. I've also been counted on for my defense in New Jersey and Charlotte. If this is the role I have here that's OK."