Heat’s Nikola Jovic Exits Monday’s Game With Elbow Injury

Jovic, who was getting an opportunity to play in part because Tyler Herro was a late scratch due to a toe injury, went up for a dunk attempt on a fast break and was fouled by Toronto rookie Collin Murray-Boyles (YouTube link). Jovic fell extremely hard, with most of his weight appearing to come down on his elbow and lower back.

While there was no ill-intent from Murray Boyles, it was still a scary-looking play. After being down on the court for a few minutes, a stretcher was brought out. Jovic didn’t end up needing the stretcher, but he was helped off with assistance, with his arm being held up by a trainer in some type of protective brace.

A former first-round pick (27th overall in the 2022 draft), Jovic is off to a disappointing start to his fourth season, averaging 7.6 points, 3.7 rebounds and 2.6 assists on .390/.283/.718 shooting in 18 appearances (19.3 minutes per game) heading into Monday’s contest. The 22-year-old Serbian is earning $4.45MM this season before his four-year, $62.4MM rookie scale extension begins next summer.