Udonis Haslem out indefinitely with foot injury
The Miami Heat, who are struggling to find their offensive flow this season, absorbed another blow after hard-working power-forward went down with a left foot injury during their game against
the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday 20 November.
Haslem, who is averaging eight points and team-high 8.2 rebounds per game this season, was diagnosed with tore ligaments in his left foot that could sideline him until the all-star break
if he would need to undergo surgery.
“What I've heard is, I mean I haven't heard from any docs, but he dislocated his second toe and he tore a few ligaments in his foot somewhere,” said Heat team-mate LeBron James. “I don't
know how long he'll be out but anytime one of your teammates goes out it hurts.”
James also recognized that Haslem would be a big loss for the Heat, especially after struggling to defend opposing power-forwards and centres in their first 13 games this season that led
to their surprising 8-5 start this year.
“He is like the heart of our team. He is our power. He is our pride,” said James on Haslem. “He brings everything every night. Size never really matters to him. He always plays above his
height, plays above his weight.”
Chris Bosh, on the other hand, said that seeing Haslem being carried off the court is not a good sign, but he knows that they have to play through adversities and step up to accomplish their
goal of winning the title this season.
“Unfortunately the game goes on,” said Bosh, who is averaging 17.1 points and 6.9 rebounds this season. “You're always going to have to play through adverse situations.”
Without Haslem, head coach Erik Spoelstra will have to look deeper into their bench, and veteran power-forward Juwan Howard will likely take Haslem’s spot. Two-time and reigning Most Valuable
Player, James, is also expected to play some minutes in the power-forward spot.
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