Miami Heat forward Nikola Jovic exited Monday night’s matchup against the Toronto Raptors only 12 seconds after checking in, leaving with a right elbow injury sustained on a fast-break dunk attempt.
The play occurred when rookie Collin Murray-Boyles fouled Jovic at the rim. The 22-year-old landed hard on his elbow and lower back, remaining on the floor for several minutes. Although a stretcher was rolled onto the court, trainers ultimately helped him to the locker room while supporting his arm in a protective brace.
X-rays taken at the arena came back negative, and the team plans to schedule an MRI on Tuesday, according to The Associated Press. Jovic had rejoined the rotation partly because guard Tyler Herro was a late scratch with a toe injury.
A first-round pick in 2022 (No. 27 overall), Jovic entered the night averaging 7.6 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.6 assists across 18 appearances, logging 19.3 minutes per game while shooting 39.0 percent from the field. He is earning $4.45 million this season before a four-year, $62.4 million rookie-scale extension begins next summer.
Source: HoopsRumors
