The Miami Heat and New Orleans Pelicans face off Wednesday with both teams dealing with significant injuries.
Miami’s Tyler Herro (right costochondral injury) and Pelle Larsson (right forearm strain) are out, while Andrew Wiggins (left toe inflammation) is listed as questionable. Norman Powell (low back tightness) will also miss the game. Jaime Jaquez Jr., Nikola Jovic, Dru Smith, and Kasparas Jakucionis are available, though the lineup could see rotations adjusted.
For the Pelicans, Dejounte Murray remains sidelined after rupturing his right Achilles. Micah Peavy is questionable with a right great toe sprain. Two-way players Trey Alexander and Hunter Dickinson are inactive for the game.
Miami has alternated performances recently, coming off a 111-115 loss to the Utah Jazz at home after a 132-101 win at Washington. Herro leads the Heat with 21.9 points per game, followed closely by Norman Powell at 23.0 points per game and Bam Adebayo at 18.3 points per game. Wiggins, despite being questionable, averages 15.9 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per contest.
The Pelicans have won two straight, including a 120-94 home victory over the Sacramento Kings. Trey Murphy III leads the team with 22.2 points and 5.7 rebounds per game. Zion Williamson contributes 21.5 points and 6.2 rebounds, while Saddiq Bey adds 16.6 points per outing.
Wednesday’s matchup will test Miami’s depth as the Heat seek to secure a playoff position in the Eastern Conference, holding a 28-27 record. New Orleans, 15-40, looks to remain competitive despite injuries and a struggling Western Conference standing. Both teams met on January 4, with Miami winning 125-106 at home.
