Prior to Game 4 in Boston, Erik Spoelstra remained adamant about the fact that the Heat have absolutely no timetable for the return of Chris Bosh. Bosh has been making progress and participating in on-court drills since the start of the series, but it appeared he still had some time to go on the road to recovery. Miami’s overtime loss to the Celtics in Game 4 may have accelerated the process.
According to ESPN.com, the Heat are planning to activate Bosh for Game 5 in Miami as long as he doesn’t suffer any setbacks over the next day or two. The Heat have started three different centers since Bosh had been out and have had trouble stopping Kevin Garnett. Now, the question becomes how effective Bosh can be.
If he truly is ready to come back, Bosh should give Miami’s front court a massive boost on both ends of the floor. If he’s still in pain or rusty from missing three weeks, it could work to the Celtics’ advantage.
Had the Heat pulled out a win in overtime Sunday night at the Garden, my guess is Bosh would still be on the bench for Game 5 in Miami. If they had a 3-1 series lead, the Heat could afford to try to close Boston out at home without their star forward. Now, the Celtics have forced them into a position of urgency. If Boston can somehow pull out a win in Miami Tuesday night, the Heat will be in a horrible position heading back on the road for Game 6. Not only do they need Bosh, but they need Bosh to be Bosh.
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