Miami Heat's forward, Nikola Jovic, is expected to miss at least four weeks due to a broken bone in his right hand. The injury occurred during Sunday's game against the Milwaukee Bucks, where Jovic broke his second metacarpal. Diagnosed at halftime, Jovic's absence will be a significant blow to the team as they aim for a playoff spot.
Jovic's injury means he will miss approximately 15 games, with a potential return date set for March 25 when the Heat face the Golden State Warriors. This season, Jovic has averaged 10.7 points and 3.9 rebounds per game. Notably, the Heat have fared well when Jovic scores at least 14 points, boasting an 11-5 record in such instances.
Jovic was evaluated by Heat's chief of hand surgery, Elizabeth Ann Ouellette, and team physician, Harlan Selesnick, on Tuesday. He will wear a splint until he's re-evaluated. His absence was already felt on Monday when he did not play in the game against Atlanta.
Heat coach Erik Spoelstra expressed his sympathy for Jovic following the injury. The timing of this setback is particularly challenging as the Heat entered Tuesday ranked ninth in the Eastern Conference. They are five games behind Detroit in pursuit of the last guaranteed playoff spot.
On Wednesday, the Heat are set to host Atlanta. The team will need to adapt quickly to Jovic's absence if they hope to maintain their postseason aspirations.
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