The Miami Heat are still trying to find their rhythm as they head into the third game of a five-game road swing, taking on the Portland Trail Blazers on Thursday. At 23-21, Miami is looking to string together back-to-back wins for the first time since the calendar flipped to 2026. But consistency has been elusive - the Heat are just 4-6 over their last 10 games, a stretch marked by injuries and uneven performances.
And once again, the injury report is front and center.
Tyler Herro, a 2024-25 All-Star and one of the Heat’s most dynamic offensive weapons, will miss his fourth straight game due to a rib injury. It's been a frustrating season for Herro, who’s been sidelined more often than not - he’s appeared in just 11 games so far this campaign.
When he’s on the floor, Herro brings scoring punch and spacing that Miami sorely misses in his absence. Without him, the Heat have had to lean more heavily on their depth and defensive grit.
Another key name to monitor is rookie big man Kel’el Ware. He’s officially listed as questionable with a hamstring issue that kept him out of Tuesday’s win over the Kings - his first missed game of the season.
Ware has quietly been a major presence on the boards, leading the team with 9.8 rebounds per game. His athleticism and length have added a new dimension to Miami’s frontcourt, particularly on the defensive end.
If he can’t go, the Heat will have to get creative in the paint, likely asking for more from veterans like Bam Adebayo and Kevin Love.
There is some good news, though. Jaime Jaquez Jr. (knee), Nikola Jovic (illness), Pelle Larsson (finger), and Davion Mitchell (shoulder) are all expected to be available for Thursday’s matchup.
Jaquez in particular has been a bright spot in his sophomore season, showing poise and versatility on both ends. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute offensively gives Miami a much-needed spark, especially in games where they’re shorthanded.
As the Heat continue this road trip, the challenge is clear: find consistency, stay healthy, and rediscover the defensive identity that’s long been their calling card. With Herro out and Ware’s status up in the air, Thursday’s game in Portland is another test of Miami’s depth and resilience.