Miami Heat Injury Update: Double Blow as Andrew Wiggins and $55,224,526 Forward Ruled Out vs. Bulls (Nov. 21)

The Miami Heat return to NBA Cup action with a clash against conference rival the Chicago Bulls on Friday. The Heat were boosted by the return of star center Bam Adebayo in Wednesday’s 110-96 win over the Golden State Warriors. However, they’ve tempered that optimism by sidelining two key players for the game against the Bulls.

Andrew Wiggins and Nikola Jovic did not travel with the team. The setback is a blow for Miami, as it reduces the team’s wing options and potentially rules them out for the clash against Philadelphia on Sunday.

Wiggins is listed out with a left hip flexor strain. The All-Star forward played 34 minutes against the Warriors, scoring 17 points with six rebounds and one assist. This will be his first time sitting out this season.

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As for Jovic, the forward has been battling a hip injury and missed his first game of the season against the Warriors. The forward, who signed a $55,224,526 (per Spotrac) extension with Miami this offseason, is averaging 8.8 points, 4.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists while shooting 40.2% from the field.

These two players’ absences leave Miami Heat's coach Erik Spoelstra relying on Jaime Jaquez, Pelle Larsson and Simone Fontecchio.

Tyler Herro, who is yet to play this season after undergoing surgery on his left ankle in September, is progressing well. The star guard is targeting a return for Monday's matchup against the Mavericks.

How to Watch the Miami Heat vs. Chicago Bulls

The Miami Heat vs. Chicago Bulls game will be broadcast locally on FDS-SUN and CHSN+. Fans in the U.S. can stream the matchup online via Fubo and Peacock. International viewers can watch the game live on NBA League Pass. Tipoff is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET at the United Center.

The Chicago Bulls enter the game with an 8-6 record, placing them seventh in the Eastern Conference. They recently snapped a losing streak with a thrilling 122-121 win over the Trail Blazers on Thursday.

In the NBA Cup, both the Heat and the Bulls hold a 1-1 record in East Group C, with the Milwaukee Bucks currently leading the group at 2-0.

Edited by Mervin LR