The Miami Heat have shared several key health updates ahead of their In-Season Tournament matchup with the New York Knicks on Friday night.
After injuring his knee by slipping on the court against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Wednesday night, guard Dru Smith has been ruled out of the Friday contest.
Big man Bam Adebayo missed the game in Cleveland due to a bruised left hip, and he’s listed as questionable for the contest against the Knicks. Similarly, sharpshooter Duncan Robinson is listed as questionable because of a right thumb sprain.
Kevin Love has rejoined the team after missing the game against the Cavs for personal reasons. The team has also assigned Orlando Robinson to the G League and recalled Cole Swider and Jamal Cain.
It’s likely safe to say that Heat coach Erik Spoelstra is upset that Smith has been ruled out for the game, as he expressed frustration at the court in Cleveland for causing the injury.
The injury occurred when Smith jumped to contest a corner 3-point attempt by Max Strus in the second quarter. When Smith landed, his foot slipped off of the playing surface. The court is slightly elevated, and as a result, there is a ledge outside of the playing area.
Hopefully, it’s not something that will keep Smith sidelined for an extended amount of time, as he has done a nice job of providing a spark off of the bench for Miami so far this season.
When discussing Adebayo’s injury, Spoelstra said that the issue isn’t expected to linger.
The final statuses for Adebayo and Robinson should be known closer to tip time on Friday night. Heading into the contest, the Heat are 2-0 in In-Season Tournament games, while the Knicks are 1-1. Both teams have two games remaining in group play.
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Thomas Bryant of the Miami Heat is adjusting to his new surroundings.
Miami Heat center Thomas Bryant never imagined it would happen so quickly.
After being acquired in the offseason, he realized it would take some time to adjust. So Wednesday could be an indication that he is becoming more at ease.
Bryant recorded 10 points, seven rebounds, and one block in a win over the Cleveland Cavaliers in the absence of Bam Adebayo. Bryant’s best performance in a Heat uniform, in my opinion.
“I feel like I adapted more being out there with teammates and being with them in practice, shootaround, and talking with the coaches to understand the concept of what we want to accomplish out there.” That, I believe, is quite beneficial.”
Bryant had little time to prepare because Adebayo was forced to withdraw with a bruised hip. In the Heat locker room, they repeat the phrase “stay ready.”
“The thing about us is we always have to stay ready no matter if we’re playing or not,” Bryant said in a statement. “We must accept responsibility and go out there and execute and do what needs to be done.” “I’m glad they put their trust in me for this one.”
The Heat are unsure if Adebayo plays Saturday against the New York Knicks. They are confident Bryant can fill in again if needed.
“Thomas’ energy, his motor, extra effort and his touch and feel inside the paint is great for the center position,” Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said.
Shandel Richardson covers the Miami Heat for Inside The Heat, a Fan Nation channel for Sports Illustrated. He has covered the NBA since 2010.
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