Nikola Jovic is expected to miss the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris due to an ankle injury, as reported by European media. The Miami Heat are hoping this injury won’t affect his readiness for the start of the NBA season.
Jovic was seen in a walking boot at the beginning of Serbia’s national team camp, but initially remained in consideration for the roster due to his strong performance in his second NBA season. However, a misstep during a defensive drill last month at Kaseya Center led to a metatarsal sprain, with no clear timeline for his recovery according to the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.
While the Heat are concerned about Jovic’s availability for the start of training camp or the NBA season, the decision on his participation in the Olympics rests with the Serbian national team. Jovic has already been sidelined for Serbia’s initial Olympic warmup game and will stay in Belgrade to focus on his recovery rather than travel with the team to Abu Dhabi for further exhibitions.
As the 27th pick in the 2022 draft, Jovic played a pivotal role for Miami in his second season, securing the starting power forward position by playoff time. His absence could prompt the Heat to consider alternatives like starting Haywood Highsmith or adopting a larger lineup featuring Bam Adebayo alongside either Kevin Love or Kel’el Ware.
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