Miami Heat

Season-opener unlikely for Heat's Josh McRoberts

MIAMI — Heat forward Josh McRoberts knew there was a chance it could limit him during the preseason.

He just didn't expect it to linger this long.


McRoberts remains sidelined because of offseason toe surgery, putting his status for the season-opener in jeopardy. He isn't expected to play the preseason finale against the Memphis Grizzlies Friday.

"I wouldn't use the word "surprised," McRoberts said. "A surgery like this takes a while. I knew it was a probability. I want to be back. Obviously, you never want to miss any time."


Frustration has started to set in for McRoberts. He's yet to practice during training camp because the injury. McRoberts is also dealing with a strained back, making his transition with the Heat difficult. He was signed in the offseason and projected to start at power forward.

All of that was put on hold once he began experiencing discomfort from the surgery.

"It's frustrating but at the same time I know it's going to improve and I know that I'm doing everything that I can," McRoberts said. "The training staff has done everything that they can to get me back. It's out of my control."

Initially, McRoberts was confident about being ready for the opener. Now, it appears more likely he will sit Wednesday's game against the Washington Wizards.

"He had a surgery on it," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. "We want to work him back at an appropriate level that it's not a setback."