Somebody check on Luol Deng.
Of the Heat’s three big offseason acquisitions – Deng, Josh McRoberts and Danny Granger – two had offseason surgery and have their return to full health projected no sooner than the regular-season opener.
McRoberts had toe surgery, and for Granger, what else would it be?
Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald:
Danny Granger reveals he had knee surgery 2 months ago but will be ready for reg season opener
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) September 26, 2014
Granger has played just 46 games the last two seasons as he’s battled knee injuries. And it’s not as if he’s played well while on the court in between. He’s shot just 37 percent from the field and 33 percent on 3-pointers the last two years.
Granger is 31, an age when many players decline regardless of injury. That he can’t shake his knee problems is even more disconcerting.
Granger and/or McRoberts missing training camp isn’t a huge concern. Though it would be helpful for them to participate, it’s not totally necessary. They’re veterans.
But without LeBron James, the Heat’s margin for error is much lower. Will they get home-court advantage in the opening round of the playoffs? Will they at least avoid a first-round matchup with the powerful Cavaliers and Bulls? Will they even make the postseason?
Every game McRoberts and/or Granger misses or plays at less than full health hurts Miami.