Heat star Kyle Lowry plans to go through his pre-game routine with the intention of returning in Game 3 on Saturday night, head coach Erik Spoelstra said, as relayed by Ira Winderman of the Sun Sentinel. Spoelstra also confirmed that P.J. Tucker intends to do the same thing, as we previously relayed.
Lowry has missed Miami’s last four games due to a strained hamstring, while Tucker is dealing with a knee contusion. Lowry did return for Games 3 and 4 against Philadelphia last round, but it caused him to re-aggravate the hamstring. He originally suffered the injury in Game 3 in the first round against Atlanta.
Provided he’s healthy and conditioned enough, Lowry should give the Heat a valuable point-of-attack in the starting unit. He averaged a team-high 7.5 assists per game this season and could help the club push the ball in transition, which is essential toward not allowing Boston’s elite defense to set up.
The Celtics added a player to their injury report for Saturday’s contest, as Robert Williams III (knee soreness) is now questionable to play, according to ESPN’s Tim Bontemps. Most players listed as questionable during the playoffs wind up being activated – several Heat players have been listed as questionable to this point – but Williams has been dealing with soreness for quite some time.
The 24-year-old underwent surgery to repair a torn meniscus at the end of March. He then suffered a bone bruise in the same knee in Game 6 of the second round, causing soreness and swelling. Williams has averaged 11.5 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.5 blocks in 24.1 minutes through the first two games this series, shooting 8-of-11 (73%).
Williams has served as one of the best rim protectors in the league this season. He allows the Celtics to play big and slots alongside Al Horford at center, anchoring one of the best defensive groups in recent memory. He’s also been impactful as a lob threat and strong screen-setter in this series. After Game 3, the Heat and Celtics will meet for Game 4 in Boston on Monday night, then again for Game 5 in Miami on Wednesday night.
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