Miami Heat

Last season the Heat were unable to regain the magic they found during their 2023 trip to the NBA Finals and injuries served as a major limiting factor. Collectively the Heat had nine players miss at least 10 games to injury, four players miss over 20 games, and two of those four missed 40 or more games. Tyler Herro’s absence was particularly noticeable as foot and ankle injuries limited him to 42 games played.

The Heat will need Herro to return to form in 2024 if they want to contend with a suddenly top-heavy Eastern Conference. Jimmy Butler’s availability will also be crucial though Butler has missed 85 games due to injury or illness (17 games per season) since joining the Heat. Swingman Josh Richardson may be limited to start the year after undergoing shoulder surgery for a torn labrum.

Team physician Dr. Harlan Selesnick is the longest tenured team physician in the NBA entering his 37th season in that role while Wes Brown enters his second season as Head Athletic Trainer. Together the duo, along with the rest of the Miami medical staff, will look to cut down injury totals and return the Heat to contender status.