Reportedly, the Miami Heat did not have Haywood Highsmith, Jimmy Butler, or Dru Smith in attendance at their Sunday practice ahead of the Christmas matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers. While Butler might still participate in the game, the absence of practice for both him and Highsmith raises concerns. Smith is ruled out for the season due to a knee injury.
Butler has been absent in Miami’s recent victories over the Orlando Magic and Atlanta Hawks. Averaging 21.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.6 assists per game this season with a shooting percentage of 46.2 from the field and 37.7 from beyond the arc, his potential absence on Monday would be a significant loss for the team.
Despite recently welcoming back Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo, the Heat’s roster is again facing injury challenges with Butler’s condition.
Highsmith, recognized as one of the team’s top perimeter defenders, could be crucial against the Sixers’ formidable offense. If available, he might be assigned to guard rising star Tyrese Maxey in Monday’s game. In 19 appearances this season, Highsmith has made 14 starts, averaging 6.3 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game.
If Butler and Highsmith are sidelined, the Heat will likely heavily rely on Jaime Jaquez Jr. and Caleb Martin on the wing. Jaquez has been impressive in his rookie season, averaging 13.1 points per game with a shooting accuracy of 50.5 percent.
Despite a desire for a home win, the Heat’s record at Kaseya Center is 8-6 this season. The Sixers, on the other hand, have performed well on the road, winning eight of their 12 away matchups.
The Heat is expected to provide more information about Butler and Highsmith’s status when the official injury report is released. As of 11:30 a.m. EST on Christmas Eve, the report had not been submitted. The Christmas matchup between the Heat and Sixers is scheduled for 8 p.m. EST.
