Heat’s Kevin Love ruled out after picking up arm contusion in final regular season game

Shortly after he was taken to the locker room, the Heat announced that Kevin Love was ruled out with an arm contusion. Hopefully, it’s not too serious and Love can return to the lineup before the start of the playoffs. If he can’t, then Miami could be in trouble in the postseason.

“UPDATE: Kevin Love (arm contusion) is OUT for the remainder of the Heat-Raptors game, the team has announced.”

The Heat will monitor Kevin Love’s elbow closely. Miami should have enough firepower to take down the Raptors in the final regular season game. But nothing is guaranteed. Overall, this injury is more of a concern for the postseason, as Miami has already clinched a playoff spot.

Even so, earning a win over Toronto becomes much more important. The Heat in position to participate in the play-in tournament. However, a win and some losses from teams ranked ahead of them could push Miami out of the play-in tournament and secure a playoff spot. That could give Kevin Love enough time to nurse his injury and get back in the lineup.

Love isn’t the player he used to be. But he’s still a magnificent asset to the Heat. His shooting opens up the floor and he’s still solid on the boards. This season, Kevin Love has averaged 9.0 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.1 assist per game.

Heat’s 2024 playoff outlook

The Heat always seem to be a bit mediocre throughout the regular season. But they turn it around come playoff time and are one of the best teams in the postseason. Jimmy Butler has become one of the best playoff performers in the league and Miami will lean on his heroics once again.

We’ve seen the Heat in a similar situation before. They’re not new to the play-in tournament and aren’t scared of taking on the one-seed if they have to. However it plays out, this should be an exciting playoff for Miami. Ideally, they’ll avoid the play-in tournament, but only time will tell how the seeding plays out.

With that said, look for the Heat to turn on the jets once the playoffs begin. If Jimmy Butler’s teammates can get going, then Miami could make another deep run. This Miami team hasn’t won a ring yet, but this could finally be the year they get over the hump.