As the Miami Heat prepare to take on the Atlanta Hawks in a highly anticipated Eastern Conference Play-In Tournament clash, the stakes couldn’t be higher. This critical matchup is a true win-or-go-home scenario—only one team will advance to the NBA Playoffs, while the other will see its season come to a disappointing end. Given the pressure and intensity surrounding this game, every player’s availability becomes crucial. Although veteran forward Kevin Love remains sidelined, the Heat are expected to welcome back most of their roster, including the much-anticipated return of young forward
The forward, just 21 years old, has been out of action for nearly two months due to a broken right hand. His last appearance came on February 23 in a game against the Milwaukee Bucks, during which he logged 15 minutes before sustaining the injury. Prior to being sidelined, the Serbian forward had been playing a key role in head coach Erik Spoelstra’s rotation. Coming off the bench, he contributed solidly throughout the season, averaging 10.7 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game. He also displayed impressive efficiency, shooting 45.6 percent from the floor and a reliable 37.1 percent from beyond the arc.
Now upgraded to “probable” for Friday night’s must-win contest, Nikola Jovic is expected to make his return to the court. However, his playing time will likely be limited, as he is still ramping back up to full game readiness. Coach Spoelstra tempered expectations earlier in the day, mentioning in an interview with The Miami Herald that even if Jovic isn’t cleared for full rotation minutes, he may still find a small role. “I’m anticipating he’ll suit up tonight too because he just wants to be there,” Spoelstra said. “Everything is part of that personality, guys just want to be out there. He’s checking all the boxes, he’s getting really close. I don’t know if he’ll be fully cleared tonight, but maybe I’ll use him as an inbounder.”
In addition to Jovic’s possible return, the Heat are expected to receive another boost in their lineup. Rookie guard Pelle Larsson, who has also been sidelined, is listed as probable for Friday’s game. Larsson sustained a right ankle sprain in what was described as a “freak accident” during a weightlifting session before Miami’s game on April 9. Despite the injury, his recovery appears to be ahead of schedule, giving the Heat a potential spark in the backcourt.
With their season hanging in the balance, the Heat are attempting to achieve a rare feat—becoming the first tenth seed in NBA history to successfully navigate the Play-In Tournament and earn a spot in the playoffs. The returns of Jovic and Larsson could not come at a better time, as Miami looks to rally with a full-strength squad, minus Kevin Love, and keep their postseason hopes alive.
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