Heat stress consistency with Jovic as injuries keep Adebayo, Herro out
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Miami head coach Erik Spoelstra said the organization is asking forward Nikola Jovic to adopt a steadier professional routine in hopes of unlocking consistent production. “When he plays with a force of will and an intention, it’s always starting with him,” Spoelstra told reporters, adding that Jovic has improved but “it’s still not where it needs to be.”
The 22-year-old signed a four-year, $62.4 million rookie-scale extension before the season but continues to alternate strong outings with quieter nights.
With Bam Adebayo sidelined by a toe sprain, Miami has shifted Andrew Wiggins into the starting power-forward spot and is using Jovic as a small-ball center off the bench. Wiggins said he is comfortable in the role, noting, “As long as I can be out there competing, I just take on that competitive challenge. I’ve got to guard a bigger guy, so I’ve got to bring it.”
Adebayo and guard Tyler Herro traveled to New York for Friday’s game against the Knicks but remained inactive. The matchup marked Adebayo’s fifth straight absence. Herro, who had left ankle surgery in the offseason, has not yet played this year; Friday was exactly eight weeks since the team projected that recovery timeline.
While Adebayo is not expected to be out long term, the Heat have not provided a formal return date. Once the three-time All-Star is back, rookie center Kel’el Ware is expected to return to a reserve role, according to the Miami Herald.
Source: Hoops Rumors
