Jaime Jaquez Jr. will once again be sidelined for the Miami Heat as they face the Boston Celtics, marking the fifth consecutive game he has missed. The rookie is dealing with a left groin strain, an injury he sustained on January 14 against the Charlotte Hornets. Despite a strong start in that game with 15 points in the first quarter, the injury occurred in the second period.
Jaquez had a similar issue with his groin during the preseason, causing him to miss two weeks. However, he has stated that the current injury is not as severe, although he acknowledges the need to take it more seriously and take time to recuperate and reach 100 percent. The Miami Heat, missing Jaquez, have faced challenges on the court, and head coach Erik Spoelstra emphasized the impact of the rookie’s energy and ability to make plays in transition.
While Jaquez’s absence is notable, the Heat are cautious not to exacerbate his injury, recognizing his potential as a key player in the team’s future. In addition to Jaquez, veteran Kevin Love is listed as “questionable” with a stomach illness. Despite these setbacks, the Heat are expected to face the Boston Celtics with the rest of the roster intact, including the recent addition of Terry Rozier, who made his debut against the Charlotte Hornets on Wednesday after being traded from the Charlotte Hornets.
