Bam Adebayo Injured as Miami Heat Struggle Against Denver Nuggets
The Miami Heat returned to Denver seeking their first regular season victory in the city since 2016. However, their efforts were hampered by another injury setback.
Injury Update and Game Impact
Bam Adebayo landed awkwardly on Norman Powell’s handoff and screen in the first quarter, forcing him to leave the game with a left foot injury and not return. Kasparas Jakucionis was added to the injury report and might have made his NBA debut, but the team faced more challenges.
Heat’s Defensive Struggles Against Jokic
With Adebayo sidelined, Coach Erik Spoelstra tried to limit Kel'el Ware's minutes against Nikola Jokic, but options were limited. Ware showed moments of effective fronting and containment, yet Miami's defense struggled on the glass.
- Denver grabbed 14 offensive rebounds in the first half, Miami only 1.
- Inconsistent defensive rebounding hurt Miami’s chances.
Bench Limitations
After Ware’s minutes ended, it became clear no other big men were available. Two-way player Vlad Goldin was assigned to Sioux Falls, leaving Keshad Johnson to back up at center.
“It was his best chance [to limit Jokic], but the inability to clean up the defensive glass consistently hurt Miami.”
Miami’s returning to Denver reminded them of their long-standing difficulties in this arena, now compounded by injuries and roster depth issues.
Summary: Injuries and limited bench depth hindered Miami Heat’s attempt to slow down Denver Nuggets and star Nikola Jokic, continuing their struggles in Denver since 2016.
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