Miami Heat’s guard, Gabe Vincent will not be able to play in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Boston Celtics on Thursday night due to a sprained left ankle. Vincent, who is averaging 17.5 points during the Eastern Conference finals, originally injured his ankle during the fourth quarter of Tuesday night’s Game 4 loss after landing awkwardly while going up for a jumper. Although he went through a workout on Thursday, the ankle is not yet ready for game action. Vincent is hopeful to return if Game 6 is needed on Saturday in Miami. The Heat currently have a 3-1 lead in the best-of-seven series entering Thursday’s game.
Replacement of Gabe Vincent
Miami Heat Coach, Erik Spoelstra, did not reveal Vincent’s replacement in the starting lineup for Game 5, but he referenced that veteran guard, Kyle Lowry, would play extra minutes if needed. Spoelstra said they would adjust and that they have had other guys step up, which is what they need for Game 5. Lowry has brought confidence to the second unit and helped stabilize the group. Spoelstra and teammates are confident if Lowry’s role increases in Game 5, he’ll be at his best in the biggest moments and bring confidence and stability to whatever unit he’s playing in.
Other Injured Players
Miami Heat is already playing without guards Tyler Herro and Victor Oladipo. Herro, who broke his hand in Game 1 of the playoff series against Milwaukee, has resumed workouts after having his brace removed. There is no timetable for his return. Oladipo will miss the rest of the season with a torn patellar tendon.
Vincent’s absence will be a significant loss to the Heat, given his impressive performance in the previous games. However, Miami Heat’s coach, Spoelstra, believes that they have other players who can step up and fill the void. The Heat will be hoping to take another step towards the NBA finals in Game 5 against the Boston Celtics.
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