Another setback hits the Miami Heat as they prepare for a critical Game 5 against the Boston Celtics. Rookie forward Jaime Jaquez Jr. will be absent due to a strained right hip flexor, adding to the list of sidelined starters, which already includes Jimmy Butler and Terry Rozier.
The absence of guard Josh Richardson, who is recovering from shoulder surgery, further depletes their lineup.
Jaquez Jr. sustained the injury during Game 4, where the Heat suffered a 102-88 defeat. Despite his efforts, contributing nine points in 22 minutes, he was forced to exit the game. Tests conducted on Tuesday revealed the severity of the injury, sidelining the promising rookie for the pivotal matchup.
Reflecting on the incident, Jaquez Jr. recounted feeling a significant discomfort in his hip while jumping for a rebound early in the third quarter. Despite attempting to play through the pain, his efforts were in vain, underscoring the severity of the injury.
A key contributor throughout the series, Jaquez Jr. has been a consistent starter, averaging 12.8 points per game. His absence poses a significant challenge for the Heat, who find themselves trailing 3-1 in the series against the Celtics.
The Heat’s postseason aspirations have been hampered by a series of injuries, with Butler and Rozier unable to participate thus far. Additionally, guard Duncan Robinson, renowned for his sharpshooting prowess, is grappling with a back issue, limiting his playing time.
With Boston on the brink of advancing to the second round, Miami faces an uphill battle to keep their playoff hopes alive. Despite the adversity, the Heat remain determined to rally and overcome the odds in their quest for postseason success.
