Miami Heat’s Gabe Vincent will not be able to play in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference finals against the Boston Celtics due to a sprained left ankle. Vincent, who is averaging 17.5 points during the Eastern Conference finals, initially injured his ankle during the fourth quarter of Tuesday night’s Game 4 loss after going up for a jumper and landing awkwardly. He is shooting 58% in the series and 50% from 3-point range against the Celtics.
Replacement for Vincent and Confidence in Lowry’s Role Increase
Heat coach Erik Spoelstra has not yet revealed Vincent’s replacement in the starting lineup for Game 5 but has indicated that veteran guard Kyle Lowry would play extra minutes if needed. Spoelstra said that Vincent went through a workout on Thursday, but the ankle is not ready for game action yet. He added that the team would adjust and that they needed other players to step up in Vincent’s absence. Spoelstra and teammates are confident in Lowry’s role increase in Game 5. Lowry has brought stability to the second unit and has helped stabilize the group. He has been at his best in the biggest moments, and his presence helps bring confidence and stability to whatever unit he’s playing in.
Other Injuries on the Miami Heat Team
The Miami Heat team 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 Herro’s return yet. Oladipo will miss the rest of the season with a torn patellar tendon.
Vincent is hopeful that he will be able 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. Vincent has started each of Miami’s first 15 playoff games and is averaging 13.1 points in the postseason, which is third-best on the Heat behind Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo. Vincent expressed his disappointment at not being able to play in Game 5, saying that he is a competitor and loves to compete with his guys. He added that he’ll be supporting them and watching them do their thing tonight. Vincent’s dedication to the team is respected by his teammates and his coach, and they are hopeful that he will be able to return soon.
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