Erik Spoelstra left Udonis Haslem inactive for Game 1, which the Miami coach described as “one of the more difficult decisions I’ve had to make.”
Haslem has participated daily in practices with the Heat since the end of the first round.
While Haslem is physically ready to return, Spoelstra determined the Heat’s co-captain is still a little too rusty. Spoelstra indicated he met with assistants before making the decision.
“Objectively, he is not quite there,” Spoelstra said. “He is making great strides.”
Haslem, however, is expected to play in the series.