Star Player to Miss Miami Heat vs. Portland Trail Blazers Game
The Portland Trail Blazers faced the Miami Heat on January 22, 2023, at the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon. However, a notable setback occurred for the Blazers as star forward Deni Avdija aggravated a prior back injury early in the third quarter, leading to his exit from the game.
Injury Report Overview
Prior to the match, both teams reported various player injuries that could impact their performance. Below is a summary of the key injuries from each team:
- Miami Heat:
- Norman Powell: Available – Back
- Davion Mitchell: Out – Shoulder
- Kel’el Ware: Out – Hamstring
- Tyler Herro: Out – Rib
- Terry Rozier: Out – Not with team
- Portland Trail Blazers:
- Deni Avdija: Out – Back
- Sidy Cissoko: Available – Illness
- Jrue Holiday: Available – Calf
- Jerami Grant: Available – Achilles
- Robert Williams: Available – Knee
- Scoot Henderson: Out – Hamstring
- Kris Murray: Out – Back
- Matisse Thybulle: Out – Knee, Thumb
- Damian Lillard: Out – Achilles
- Blake Wesley: Out – Foot
Game Details
This matchup marked the second and final regular season contest between the Heat and the Blazers. Earlier in the season, Miami achieved a narrow victory against Portland on November 8, winning 136-131. The Heat had a strong track record, winning eight of the last ten games against the Blazers.
Current Season Records
The game also showcased the two teams’ current season records:
- Miami Heat: 23 wins, 21 losses
- Portland Trail Blazers: 22 wins, 22 losses
Matchup Statistics
The all-time regular season record sees Miami at 31 wins and 43 losses against the Blazers. The breakdown of home and away games includes:
- Home games: Heat 14 wins, 23 losses
- Away games: Heat 17 wins, 20 losses
Projected Starters
Miami Heat Starters:
- G Kasparas Jakucionis
- G Norman Powell
- C Bam Adebayo
- F Pelle Larsson
- F Andrew Wiggins
Portland Trail Blazers Starters:
- G Jrue Holiday
- G Shaedon Sharpe
- C Donovan Clingan
- F Jerami Grant
- F Toumani Camara
Betting Odds
The betting odds for the game reflected close competition:
| Team | Spread | Moneyline | Total Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miami Heat | +3.5 (-108) | +134 | 235.5 (over -108, under -112) |
| Portland Trail Blazers | -3.5 (-112) | -158 | 235.5 (over -108, under -112) |
Coach’s Insights
Following a previous victory over the Sacramento Kings, Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra stated the importance of their defensive strategy, highlighting the team’s collective spirit and individual contributions, particularly from players like Bam Adebayo and Pelle Larsson.
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