The Miami Heat are back in action Monday night, hosting the Utah Jazz, and all eyes are on the injury report - particularly the statuses of Bam Adebayo and Norman Powell. Both players are key pieces for Miami, and their availability could swing the tone of this matchup.
Let’s start with Adebayo. He’s officially listed as probable with right hip tightness, which is generally a good sign for Heat fans.
That designation typically means he’s expected to suit up, barring any setbacks during warmups. Adebayo has been a steady presence for Miami this season, appearing in 46 games and continuing to anchor both ends of the floor.
He’s putting up 18.2 points, 9.8 rebounds, 2.7 assists and 1.1 steals per game - all while shooting 44.6% from the field and showing a bit of stretch in his game with 34.6% from deep. If he’s good to go, expect him to play his usual high-impact role, especially with Miami still managing several other injuries.
Norman Powell’s situation is a little more uncertain. He’s listed as questionable with low back tightness after leaving Sunday’s game against the Wizards.
Before exiting, he had been rolling - 21 points and four boards in just 25 minutes. Powell has been a revelation in his first year with the Heat following his offseason trade from the Clippers.
He earned his first All-Star nod this season, and it’s easy to see why. He’s averaging a career-best 23.0 points per game, along with 3.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists and 1.2 steals.
His efficiency has been elite: 47.4% from the field, nearly 40% from three, and over 84% at the line. If he can’t go, that’s a big offensive void for Miami to fill.
The Heat’s injury list doesn’t stop there. Tyler Herro remains sidelined with a rib injury, and Terry Rozier is out as well, not currently with the team.
That makes the potential absence of Powell even more significant. Rookie Jaime Jaquez Jr. (left knee sprain), Nikola Jovic (right hip impingement), Kasparas Jakucionis (left ankle), and Dru Smith (left ankle soreness) are all listed as available, which gives head coach Erik Spoelstra some flexibility.
Pelle Larsson is doubtful, and both Vladislav Goldin and Keshad Johnson are out due to G League assignments.
On the Jazz side, they’re dealing with injuries of their own. Keyonte George is out with a right ankle sprain, and big man Walker Kessler remains sidelined as he recovers from a left shoulder injury. Also worth noting: Kevin Love will sit this one out for rest.
With both teams shorthanded in spots, this game could come down to which supporting cast steps up. But if Adebayo is active and Powell can give it a go, Miami’s chances of controlling the tempo - especially on defense and in transition - get a major boost.
We’ll have to wait until closer to tip-off for final word on Powell, but one thing’s clear: health is playing a major role in shaping this matchup.