Miami Heat head into Friday night’s Eastern Conference matchup against the Boston Celtics with key availability questions that could shape their approach at TD Garden. With the standings tightening and every game carrying postseason implications, Miami’s injury situation places added focus on depth, adaptability, and execution against a conference rival.
Nikola Jovic and Terry Rozier ruled out
Miami will be without Nikola Jovic, who has been ruled out due to an elbow injury. Jovic’s absence removes a versatile frontcourt option who has provided energy and spacing in rotation minutes this season.
His unavailability forces Heat to further rely on their core big-man rotation, placing additional responsibility on Bam Adebayo and rookie Kel’el Ware to control the interior.
Terry Rozier will also miss the game for personal reasons. While Rozier has dealt with interruptions this season, his scoring punch and ball-handling have been valuable when Miami looks to change pace offensively. Without him, Miami’s backcourt depth takes a hit, particularly in second-unit scoring situations.
Tyler Herro listed as game-time decision
The most closely monitored name on the injury report is Tyler Herro, who is listed as a game-time decision due to a toe issue. Herro’s availability is crucial for Miami’s offensive rhythm, especially against a Boston team that thrives on defensive pressure and perimeter contests.
If Herro is unable to go, Miami Heat will need increased scoring responsibility from their wings and guards to compensate for his absence.
Pelle Larson is also a game-time decision with an ankle injury, further complicating Miami’s rotation flexibility. While Larson’s role has been limited, his availability would offer additional depth options if Miami needs to adjust on the fly.
Probable starting lineup reflects stability
Despite the injury concerns, Miami is expected to roll out a stable starting five featuring Davion Mitchell, Norman Powell, Andrew Wiggins, Bam Adebayo, and Kel’el Ware. This lineup emphasizes defensive versatility, transition speed, and interior presence, all of which will be essential against a Celtics team eager to rebound from recent losses.
Adebayo remains the centerpiece for Miami on both ends of the floor, while Wiggins and Powell will be tasked with providing consistent scoring and perimeter defense. Mitchell’s role as a steady ball-handler will also be vital, particularly if Herro is limited or unavailable.
Miami Heat looking to build momentum
Miami enters the matchup with a 15-12 record, sitting seventh in the Eastern Conference after a win over the Brooklyn Nets. While recent performances have been inconsistent, this game presents an opportunity to gain momentum and make a statement against a direct playoff competitor.