Miami Heat Face Injury Setbacks Ahead of Preseason Games

MIAMI — The Miami Heat have reported notable injury absences ahead of crucial preseason scrimmages and games. The team confirmed that three players would miss Monday night’s Red, White & Pink intrasquad scrimmage and the subsequent preseason opener against the Charlotte Hornets at Spectrum Center on Tuesday.

Among those sidelined is Tyler Herro, who continues to face health challenges following a series of past injuries. Herro is currently dealing with a strained right groin. Team officials indicated that an MRI was deemed unnecessary, describing the injury as minor. Despite his absence, Herro participated in activities supporting cancer care and research for the Baptist Health Miami Cancer Institute before the scrimmage.

Joining Herro on the sidelines is forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. Jaquez underwent an MRI due to a strained left groin and his status remains day to day. Additionally, an unnamed veteran player remains out, as anticipated, as he continues recuperating from shoulder surgery undergone last season.

Monday night’s scrimmage featured remarks from Heat coach Erik Spoelstra, who addressed attending cancer survivors, stating, “We are right there with you.” Spoelstra expressed optimism for the upcoming season, highlighting the team’s readiness and spirit despite the current setbacks.

The scrimmage provided little insight into potential starting lineups due to absent key players like Herro. The Red team comprised Bam Adebayo, Jimmy Butler, Terry Rozier, Nikola Jovic, and Alec Burks, while the White team included Thomas Bryant, Haywood Highsmith, Pelle Larsson, Duncan Robinson, and Dru Smith.

Bam Adebayo demonstrated his prowess, scoring 11 points within the first period, including notable 3-pointers. Pelle Larsson also impressed with his energy and sharp offensive cuts, concluding the opening quarter with 11 points and leading all scorers by the end of the scrimmage with a total of 21 points.

The rosters saw frequent changes with the score reset at the end of each 10-minute period, resembling the dynamic nature of the gameplay. Another highlight involved a player karaoke session to “I Want it That Way” observed between the third and fourth quarters, adding a lighter atmosphere to the event.

Concluding the scrimmage, Caleb Daniels and Nassir Little were among the last players to see action, participating in the second period. The team’s preseason continues with a match against the Atlanta Hawks following Tuesday’s fixture in Charlotte, building up to their regular-season opener against the Orlando Magic on October 23.