Breaking: Heat Seasoned Pro to Bring Experience to the…
The Miami Heat are off to a 1-1 start in the 2024-25 season. After losing on opening night to the Orlando Magic, Miami rebounded with a 114-106 victory over the Charlotte Hornets on Saturday.
Josh Richardson, expected to play a key reserve role, has not been available the first two games due to injury. It seems like that may change for Richardson in the next game or two after an upgrade to his status.
10-Year Veteran Very Close To Season Debut For Heat
Richardson Hasn’t Played NBA Game Since February
It has been a while since the Heat, or anyone for that matter, has seen Richardson play in an NBA game. Joining Miami for his second stint with the team last season, Richardson suffered a dislocated shoulder in February. It sidelined him for Miami’s last 29 regular season games as well as their five-game playoff series against the Boston Celtics.
While Richardson has recently been fully cleared from the shoulder injury, a heel injury has now forced the 31-year-old out of action. Positive news is on the way though for Richardson who hasn’t played in more than eight months.
The 6-foot-5 Richardson was upgraded to questionable for Saturday’s game. He took part in pregame warmups before being ruled out shortly before the game began. According to Anthony Chiang of The Miami Hearld, head coach Erik Spoelstra had this to say about Richardson after Saturday morning shootaround.“He’s making progress, so I’m encouraged by it. I know he is, as well. Don’t have a specific date, but he’s practicing and he’s doing everything right now.”
The progress is encouraging for a Miami team that could certainly use additional depth. The next two games that Richardson will hope to play in both come at home: Monday against the Detroit Pistons, and Wednesday against the New York Knicks.
