Miami Heat guard Terry Rozier is expected to return from his neck spasms injury no sooner than Game 3 of the team’s first-round playoff series against the Boston Celtics. The 30-year-old player is still at least a week away from being cleared to return, as reported by Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun Sentinel.
Game 1 is set for Sunday at TD Garden, Game 2 on Wednesday at TD Garden, and Game 3 next Saturday at Kaseya Center. Rozier first experienced symptoms of his neck injury during the Heat’s 117-115 road loss to the Indianapolis Pacers on April 7, where he scored four points in 21 minutes of play.
Despite the odds, NBA betting sites rank the Heat with the 10th-best chance of winning the championship this season. The Celtics, Milwaukee Bucks, and Philadelphia 76ers have better odds according to sportsbooks.
Heat coach Erik Spoelstra expressed empathy for Rozier, mentioning his progress and competitive spirit. However, Rozier is not yet ready to play in an NBA playoff-level game due to his current condition.
Additionally, the Heat are facing the absence of six-time All-Star forward Jimmy Butler, who sustained a knee injury sidelining him for several weeks. Rozier was acquired in a trade with the Charlotte Hornets in exchange for Kyle Lowry and a future first-round draft pick.
Throughout the regular season, Rozier showcased impressive stats, averaging 19.8 points, 4.0 rebounds, 5.6 assists, and shooting 44.3% from the field. His return to the court is eagerly anticipated by both fans and the team.
In a previous game, Rozier scored a season-high 42 points against the Phoenix Suns. He is currently earning $23.2 million this season and is set to make $24.9 million in 2024-25 as part of his multi-million dollar contract with Charlotte signed in 2021.
Despite being underdogs, the Heat face the Celtics as 13.5-point underdogs according to NBA sportsbooks ahead of Game 1. The Celtics are favored to win with an 80.3% chance according to ESPN’s Basketball Power Index.
