The Miami Heat will soon be getting a much-needed boost in the backcourt as the team begins a late-season run to the playoffs. Just not quite yet, though. Point guard Goran Dragic remains inactive for the Heat's game against the Philadelphia 76ers on Thursday.
Previous momentum indicated that Dragic would be available to play versus Philadelphia. He practiced in full on Wednesday, after which the team said he would be ready to play for the first time since mid-November.
The 32-year-old underwent surgery on December 19th to fix a nagging right knee injury. He missed three of Miami's first eight games in November while dealing with pain before being shut down after his team's November 16th victory over the Indiana Pacers. Dragic had planned to make his way back to the court without going under the knife, but those hopes were dashed after his knee failed to adequately respond to treatment and rehabilitation.
The Heat, 26-30, are tied with the Detroit Pistons for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. They've fared better than many anticipated in Dragic's absence, going a respectable 20-21 amid a rash of injuries to other regular contributors. Former lottery pick Justise Winslow has played well since being shoved into point guard duty, averaging 13.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game, revitalizing his career in the process.
It remains to be seen how Dragic will be used upon his return to the lineup, but it will be a boon for Miami either way. The Heat, after trading Tyler Johnson and releasing Wayne Ellington, need all the help they help they can get in the backcourt as they fight for a playoff berth.
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