A lineup shakeup could be in store for the Miami Heat for Wednesday's season opener against New York.

Udonis Haslem, a starter the past five seasons at power forward, was told by the coaching staff he would have to accept a new role off the bench as Michael Beasley's backup at the position.

The Heat's new-look lineup is also expected to feature offseason pickup Quentin Richardson at small forward, completing an opening group that will include Mario Chalmers and Dwyane Wade in the backcourt with Richardson and Beasley at forward spots and Jermaine O'Neal at center.

Coach Erik Spoelstra would not confirm the starters for Wednesday's game. But Haslem spoke about his new role.

For Haslem, who had been entrenched as the starting power forward since the Heat's 2006 championship run, it was a surprise. But it was also an adjustment he said he has not stressed over too much. He was polite but seemed somewhat agitated as spoke with reporters Tuesday.

``I didn't make that call, so that's nothing I'm going to worry about,'' said Haslem, a Miami native who has started all but two games since his rookie season as an undrafted free agent. ``I've been the ultimate team player and I made the ultimate sacrifice throughout my career. This is just another situation where I've been asked to do it again.''

Haslem, 29, is entering the final season of his contract and will be a free agent next summer. He had been slowed by a groin injury the past two days and hasn't practiced since Sunday. The move apparently was made to address the future at the power forward position.

Beasley, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2008 draft, had primarily played power forward but has spent time this offseason playing small forward.

``A lot of guys will have to sacrifice,'' Spoelstra said when asked about his plans for the starting lineup and rotation. ``When we go over roles, you just have to stay ready. Right now, everybody is ready. And as we adjust and fill into our roles, it's got to be all about the team.''

Richardson has started four games during the preseason, including three at small forward. He was acquired by the Heat during an offseason trade with Minnesota. Richardson, a nine-year veteran, is expected to provide a perimeter defensive presence in the lineup.

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