Adebayo missed the Heat’s last game against the Cavaliers due to a lower back contusion. Because of that, there are worries that the star center might miss more time. Back injuries are tricky to deal with, after all. Furthermore, on the NBA’s initial injury report, the Heat listed Bam Adebayo as questionable due to that same injury.

Fortunately, hours before the game, the Heat gave Adebayo the greenlight to play.

Adebayo is having a pretty solid season for himself this year once again. He’s averaging 19 points per game on his usual efficiency while providing versatility and defense (10.6 rebounds, four assists, and nearly a steal and a block per game). The Heat relied on Bam’s elite skillset more and more in the season, and it’s paying off.

The Heat will be going up against a Pelicans team that suffered a brutal blow to their roster. Brandon Ingram was helped off the floor during their previous game due to an injury. While they’re still waiting for an MRI for his injury, he’s certainly not going to be available against the Heat. He’s set to miss weeks due to the injury he suffered.

Heat’s season summed up

The Heat’s campaign this season hasn’t been eye-catching. They’re squarely in the playoff race, not really reaching for the top but maintaining their position. They’ve been pretty unassuming in terms of their performance. Sitting at seventh seed is just proof of that.

However, we know exactly what this Heat team is capable of when they get to the playoffs. Playoff Jimmy Butler is not a myth, and he’s elevated the Heat along with him when the postseason arrives. In fact, they clawed their way from the Play-In Tournament last season to win the Eastern Conference.

The moral of the story is: do not underestimate this Heat team.