Erik Spoelstra, the head coach of the Miami Heat, recently shared an injury update on their star center, Bam Adebayo. Spoelstra mentioned that there is currently no timetable for Adebayo’s return to the lineup. This decision comes after Adebayo’s absence during Wednesday’s triumph over the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he was sidelined due to a bruised hip. Notably, this marks only the second game Adebayo has missed in the ongoing season.
Spoelstra shed light on the nature of Adebayo’s injury, clarifying that it is not a lingering issue and that Adebayo has received padding for added protection. The injury stemmed from a brutal fall in the recent game against the Chicago Bulls, occurring in the same spot where he had previously missed a game earlier in the season. While Adebayo participated in shootaround activities, he refrained from jumping due to the injury.
Despite Adebayo’s absence, the Heat secured their second consecutive win and ninth in the last ten games. Kyle Lowry stepped up with a season-high 28 points, and rookie Jaime Jaquez continued to impress with 22 points, marking his fourth double-digit scoring game in the last five.
The Heat will continue to monitor Adebayo’s condition as they settle in New York, with an upcoming matchup against the Knicks at Madison Square Garden on Saturday. This game holds added significance as it is a rematch of last year’s Eastern Conference semifinals, a series won by the Heat.
Spoelstra provided insight into Adebayo’s ongoing treatment, noting that the center has been undergoing continuous care, including on Thanksgiving. The coach emphasized a cautious approach, stating, “He’ll do it on Thanksgiving, and we’ll just see,” highlighting the team’s commitment to ensuring Adebayo’s total recovery before his return to the court.