The Miami Heat ruled Klay Thompson out for Friday night’s NBA Cup group play contest against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Thompson sustained a left ankle injury during a victory over the Utah Jazz last Tuesday after recording a late-game block, according to ClutchPoints reporting.
Although the veteran was upgraded to probable earlier in the day, he was later downgraded to questionable and ultimately ruled out prior to the pre-game press conference.
Heat head coach Erik Spoelstra explained that the team had an initial intention to play the guard, but the player struggled during his warm-up routine.
“Went through his whole routine with the intention to play, but was not able to get up to top speeds,” Spoelstra said.
The coach noted that Thompson is making daily progress, but his status for Saturday’s game against the Detroit Pistons remains uncertain.
In addition to Thompson, Pelle Larsson is also unavailable for the contest due to an illness.
With the rotation in flux, Spoelstra has turned to rookie Ryan Conwell for extended minutes in the second unit.
Conwell has impressed the coaching staff with his defensive discipline and toughness, the outlets reported.
Meanwhile, veteran Tim Hardaway Jr. has seen his playing time decrease recently, resulting in a coach’s decision to keep him sidelined in previous outings.
Despite the lack of recent playing time, Spoelstra praised Hardaway for his positive demeanor and support of younger teammates.
“He has fortitude, he has grit, and his karma is great in terms of being in a tough spot,” Spoelstra noted.
Hardaway is expected to receive an opportunity to contribute during Friday’s game against Cleveland as the team navigates its current injury report.
The Heat continue to evaluate their rotation options as they compete in the NBA Cup group stage.