The Miami Heat are off to a modest 3-4 start, but they have struggled through some minor injuries to major players. Dwyane Wade, Goran Dragic, and Tyler Johnson were all held out of practice, but they are expected to give it a go during shootaround per Shandel Richardson of The Athletic. Richardson also notes that Whiteside missed practice as well, but he is definitely playing on Saturday when the Heat take on the Atlanta Hawks.

The Heat are hoping to snap a two-game losing streak in Atlanta against the 2-6 Hawks. Trae Young is leading the way for Atlanta this season, averaging 18.5 points while dishing out 7.0 assists per game as well. He could wind up being a handful for the Heat if they are without Wade, Dragic, or Johnson.

It's unlikely that all three will be absent from the backcourt. The backcourt trio has appeared in every game for the Heat this season. That being said, Josh Richardson and Rodney McGruder are leading the team in minutes per game and both have proven to be crucial for Erik Spoelstra's team. Additionally, Dion Waiters is still working his way back from an ankle injury and there is no timetable for his return.

Injuries can derail any team's hopes for success. The Heat are a potential playoff team in the Eastern Conference, but they are no spring chickens. It's important for Spoelstra to make sure he's keeping his guys fresh and ready for the long haul.