Johnson doesn't sound to be a candidate for preseason reps, but it's encouraging to hear he's progressing in his hamstring recovery. A two-way player, Johnson will likely be shuttled to the G League's Sioux Falls Skyforce once healthy later this fall. What his absence changes
Wiggins will skip Saturday's exhibition for maintenance reasons, but he should return for Wednesday's preseason game against Brooklyn. Wiggins' absence should open up minutes for Myron Gardner and Simone Fontecchio.
Adebayo is one of several projected starters who won't be available for the Heat in this preseason contest due to rest. The star big man could return to face Brooklyn on Wednesday, as the Heat are taking a cautious approach to have him fully available for the regular-season opener against the Timberwolves on Oct. 21.
The Heat will be resting their entire starting lineup for Saturday's preseason game, so expect ample minutes for guys like Ryan Conwell and Bez Mbeng. Mitchell should return for Wednesday's exhibition against the Nets.
This is a tough blow for the point guard who was penciled in as the top backup behind Davion Mitchell. If he indeed misses a couple weeks, he could be back in time for their final preseason contest Oct. 16.
Antetokounmpo is one of several projected starters who won't be available for this preseason matchup. This is likely a rest-related move in order to have Antetokounmpo available for the regular-season opener on Oct. 21 against the Timberwolves, especially since he was limited to just 36 regular-season games with the Bucks in the 2025-26 regular season. His next chance to play will come against Brooklyn on Wednesday.
The 36-year-old vet will receive a maintenance day Saturday, but he should be back in action for Wednesday's preseason meeting with the Nets. Tim Hardaway should be more involved in the rotation Saturday with Thompson unavailable.
Kelley inked a deal with the Heat on Thursday, but he has yet to suit up for Miami during the preseason. His next chance to play will come Wednesday against the Nets.
Although he's trending in the right direction, Larsson hinted that he's going to take things slow as he's still dealing with some lingering headaches. Assuming he sits Wednesday, he will have the opportunity to play in one more exhibition Friday.
