Miami Heat star center Bam Adebayo will not play for the Heat in their Monday night game against Damian Lillard and Giannis Antetokounmpo’s Milwaukee Bucks. According to Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald, Adebayo is dealing with a left hip contusion.
Adebayo was initially listed as questionable to play before being demoted to ‘out’. His injury reportedly worsened over the course of the day, leading up to pre-match warm-ups.
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According to Heat coach Erik Spoelstra, Adebayo suffered the injury on Saturday during Miami’s 106-90 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves.
“He took that hard spill, and when we got to town yesterday it was pretty painful,” Spoelstra said.
“Today didn’t get much better.”
Adebayo’s absence is bad news for Miami (1-2), which has gotten off to a slow start this season. The Heat are also sorely lacking in center depth behind Adebayo, with veteran Thomas Bryant and sophomore Orlando Robinson the only other centers on their roster.
Fortunately for Miami, however, Adebayo’s injury is considered a daily occurrence. So the star big man shouldn’t miss too much time.
Also read: Why is Brandon Ingram out tonight against the Golden State Warriors? Pelicans All-Star’s injury status
How has Bam Adebayo fared so far this season?
Although Bam Adebayo is best known for his defense, he was the Miami Heat’s leading scorer through three games on Monday night. So the Heat will feel his absence on both ends of the court.
Adebayo is averaging 22.7 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.3 blocks per game on 48.0% shooting.
If the big man can maintain this level, he could set another career record. Adebayo averaged a career-high 20.4 ppg last season.
If Adebayo continues his strong start, he should have a good chance of securing his third All-Star berth.
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