The Miami Heat will face the Indiana Pacers on Thursday without several key players. Josh Richardson is sidelined due to right heel inflammation, while Dru Smith is out for the season following left Achilles surgery. However, Nikola Jovic and Duncan Robinson have been cleared to play after recovering from their respective injuries.
On the Pacers' side, Aaron Nesmith is also out with a sprained left ankle, limiting his participation this season. Additionally, James Wiseman and Isaiah Jackson are both out for the year due to Achilles tendon injuries. The status of two-way players Quenton Jackson and Enrique Freeman remains uncertain as they are doubtful for the game.
This matchup is crucial for both teams as Miami, sitting at 17-14, holds the No. 6 seed in the Eastern Conference, while the Pacers at 16-18 are currently No. 8. The game is significant as both teams aim to secure their positions and avoid the play-in tournament.
