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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Miami Heat fans have been eagerly awaiting the return of their star player Tyler Herro. And recent reports suggest that the wait will be over with the shooting guard’s sooner comeback to the court. It was Shams Charania who recently carried the update on Herro’s injury on Run It Back TV. With playoffs just around the corner, this news will provide a glimmer of hope to Heat fans.

Herro has been sidelined since February 23 because of a foot injury. He underwent PRP injections to accelerate healing and has been going through intensive rehab. The Heats are, thus, optimistic about his return and might allow Herro a few minutes in the team’s upcoming 3-game road trip. It is expected that he will play tonight’s game against the Houston Rockets as Charania states, “I’m told [Tyler Herro] is close to returning, he could be back in the lineup as soon as tonight…”

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Herro’s return will boost playoff hopes for the Heat. The 24-year-old point guard is a key contributor when he is healthy. But injuries have always followed him. Last season he fractured his hand in the playoffs which resulted in him missing the entire postseason which hopefully won’t be the case this campaign.

Tyler Herro’s contribution on the field has been noticeable this season. He has played only 36 games but averages impressive 20.8 points, 4.4 assists, and, 5.3 rebounds per game. His 3p% stands at 39.9% shining light on his scoring prowess. He, alongside Jimmy Butler, offers a mighty pair of offense for the Heat.

Heat will primarily focus on Herro’s long-term health so that he regains his form and rhythm before playoffs. Missing significant time because of injury can disrupt a player’s conditioning and timing. It is expected that he will play tonight but don’t be surprised if he misses.

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Predicted Lineups: Rockets vs Heat

The Rockets hold 11th position in the Western Conference with 38-38 record. Their recent loss to GSW extended their losing streak to 3 games after winning 11 games on trot. Rockets have scored points at an average of 114.0 per game while conceding an average of 112.8. They will be missing services of few of their key players such as Alperen Sengun, Amen Thompson, threatening their chances of winning. But keeping the hopes alive could be: Fred VanVleet, Dillon Brooks, Jalen green, Amen Thompson, Jabari Smith Jr.

The Miami Heat on the other hand, hold 7th rank in the eastern Conference having won 6 out of their last 10 games. They hold a good away record winning 22 games out of 38 but haven’t been strong on the offense considering their average of 109.8 per game which is 27th overall in the league. But they have also defended their court well only conceding 108.4 points per game which is 4th overall in the league. In the crucial matchup tomorrow, this is how they could lineup: Bam Adebayo, Jimmy Butler, Nikola Jovic, Duncan Robinson, Tyler Herro.

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Heat will be looking forward to solidify their playoff position but the Rockets will look to spoil their party. For Heat, the priority remains Herro’s health. If he plays tonight, it’ll be in a limited role in hopes of a better run ahead.

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