The Miami Heat have gone 3-5 without Chris Bosh in the lineup and it hasn’t been pretty — this was one of their longest home stands of the season and they couldn’t take advantage, getting blown out by the likes of the Bulls and Jazz.
Bosh averages 21.6 points and 8 rebound a game. Without him the Heat’s offensive balance has been missing, their three point shooting has declined and they are less of a threat to score inside. The Heat offense has been three points per 100 possessions better with Bosh on the court.
They should have that back Monday night — Bosh is expected to return from his calf injury Monday night vs. the Magic. Shandel Richardson of the Sun-Sentinel has the details.
Spoelstra says Bosh is expected to play. Went through shootaround.
— Shandel Richardson (@ShandelRich) December 29, 2014
Bosh went through a full practice on Sunday, the question was how his calf would respond and feel Monday. Apparently good enough.
This is not an easy spot to return for Bosh, he will match up against Nikola Vucevic for much of the night, a versatile and physical big man. There likely will be a minutes restriction for Bosh as well.
But it will be good for Miami to have him back. They are a playoff team in the East with him, without him it’s borderline.