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A crucial Game, 5 between New York Knicks and Miami Heat could be heavily influenced by injury reports from both sides in the Eastern Conference semi-finals. New York Knicks are trailing by 3-1 in this series, and Game 5 is going to be a must-win situation for Knicks at Madison Square Garden.
Miami, on the other hand, is in the driver's seat and has a chance to clinch a spot in the Eastern Conference Finals. During the entirety of the series, rumours spread that numerous key players have been affected by ankle injuries on both teams. Julius Randle missed the opening game as he suffered from an ankle sprain and Jimmy Butler skipped Game 2 owing to his rolled ankle.
While they have made a return from injury and resumed playing games, it appears that both players are still some time away from being fully fit. Their capability to deliver exceptional performances on the court has been hampered by ongoing ankle problems making fans worry about them.
Projected Starting Lineups and Injury Report: A Closer Look at the Heat vs Knicks key players
Injury report concerns continue to loom over both teams. The Heat will be without the services of Tyler Herro and Victor Oladipo, who are sidelined with their respective injuries. On the Knicks' side, Immanuel Quickley remains doubtful with an ankle injury, further limiting their backcourt depth.
The Heat, who have been dominant when holding a 3-1 series lead, are eager to close out the series and secure their spot in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Projected starting lineup for the Miami Heat:
- PG: Gabe Vincent
- SG: Max Strus
- C: Bam Adebayo
- SF: Jimmy Butler
- PF: Kevin Love
Projected starting lineup for the New York Knicks:
- PG: Jalen Brunson
- SF: Josh Hart
- SG: RJ Barrett
- PF: Julius Randle
- C: Mitchell Robinson
The Knicks have their backs against the wall as they try hard for a victory keeping aside their injury report that would keep them alive in the playoffs. Game 5 will put this skill set on display. Counting on their enthusiastic fans at Madison Square Garden and a solid home-court presence is key for them to win this game.
Game 6 will be played at Miami which will raise the intensity of pressure on The Heat to seal off this match. It will be interesting to see whether we will see a glorious comeback from the Knicks or a resounding victory for Miami's Heat?
