Terry Rozier's nightmare season takes another turn for the worst

Terry Rozier hasn’t been part of the Miami Heat’s rotation in a while, but he still ended up on the injury report ahead of Wednesday’s Game 2 in Cleveland.

Rozier suffered a left ankle sprain during a voluntary workout on Monday, according to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel’s Ira Winderman. He was seen in a walking boot on Tuesday afternoon and is listed as out with an ankle sprain.

Terry Rozier is in a walking boot after an injury suffered during a voluntary workout.

It’s fair to assume that Rozier won’t be available for the playoffs, although he told reporters in Cleveland that he did not need an MRI and is taking things day to day.

Rozier has been mostly out of the Heat’s rotation for nearly a month, besides some spot minutes because of injuries and garbage time. He did not play in either of Miami’s play-in games or in Sunday’s Game 1 loss in Cleveland despite being available.

After missing last year’s playoffs because of a neck injury, Rozier returned to the Heat this season but posted his marks in points (10.6), field-goal percentage (39.1%) and assists (2.6) since becoming a starter in 2019-20. Rozier started the first 12 games of the season but was removed from the lineup amidst his struggles.

The Heat acquired Rozier last January for Kyle Lowry’s expiring contract and a future first-round pick owed to Charlotte in 2027.

Other injury news

Fortunately for the Heat, Nikola Jovic is listed as available for Wednesday’s Game 2. Jovic hasn’t played since Feb. 23 because of a broken bone in his right hand. 

Pelle Larsson is also available after missing the end of the season and play-in tournament with a right ankle sprain. 

Also considered available: Alec Burks (lower back), Duncan Robinson (left sacroiliac joint) and Haywood Highsmith (left Achilles soreness).

Kevin Love is still out as he remains away from the team for personal reasons.