Miami Heat’s injury concerns continue to mount at a critical point in the season, with a fresh setback emerging ahead of their upcoming matchup against the Atlanta Hawks. According to the Heat’s December 25 injury report, All-Star center Bam Adebayo has been added as a new concern, further complicating Miami’s preparations.
Adebayo is listed as day-to-day with lower back soreness and is questionable to play on December 26 against Atlanta. The timing is far from ideal, as both the Heat and Hawks have struggled recently, each posting a 2-8 record over their last 10 games.
Bam Adebayo’s status raises defensive concerns
Adebayo has been a consistent presence for Miami this season, appearing in 24 of the team’s 30 games. He previously missed six contests in November due to a sprained big toe, and his potential absence once again raises red flags—particularly on the defensive end.
While Miami holds a 4-2 record in games Adebayo has missed, the underlying numbers paint a more concerning picture. In those contests, Miami Heat have allowed an average of 126.6 points per game, highlighting how difficult it is to replicate Adebayo’s defensive impact in the paint and on switches.
The difference is further reflected in Miami’s defensive efficiency. When Adebayo plays, the Heat post a 111.9 defensive rating. Without him, that figure jumps to 117.8, underscoring his importance as the team’s defensive anchor.
Offensive struggles add to Miami’s challenges
Even when on the floor, Adebayo has faced offensive challenges during Miami’s recent slump. He has scored fewer than 10 points in two of the Heat’s last four games and is shooting just 37.5% from the field over that stretch.
Perimeter shooting has also been an issue. Adebayo is 0-for-7 from three-point range across those four games and 1-for-16 from deep over Miami Heat’s last seven contests. While scoring has fluctuated, his defensive presence remains irreplaceable, making his availability against Atlanta a key storyline.
Miami Heat already without Tyler Herro
Miami’s injury report is further complicated by the continued absence of Tyler Herro, who remains sidelined with a right toe injury. Without Herro’s scoring punch and potentially missing Adebayo’s interior presence, the Heat could face an uphill battle against a Hawks team equally desperate to regain momentum.
What comes next for Miami
If Adebayo is unable to suit up against Atlanta, expectations remain that he will return shortly after. However, his status for Thursday’s game looms large, as Miami Heat attempts to stabilize its defense and halt its recent slide.