So maybe Miami is not competing with just Charlotte and Indiana for a playoff spot.

Michael Jordan was activated Wednesday for the Wizards' game in Denver. And given that Miami and Washington entered Wednesday five games under.500, the Wizards are as much in the race as the Heat.

Jordan's return from a knee injury makes the Wizards a much more legitimate contender.

"I think he probably always had an intention of coming back," Heat coach Pat Riley said of Jordan. "I think everybody is thinking for him and wishing for him, and what he should do for him. He got hurt, had a scope and when he feels strong he's going to come back to play. That's why he's here. And they still have a shot.

"I don't think he wants to waste this year by sitting on the sideline and not giving his team a shot to make the playoffs."

Jim Jackson isn't so sure Jordan's return vaults the Wizards into playoff contention.

"With him coming back and not really being healthy, I don't think helps them," Jackson said. "I guess it would depend on how healthy he is. I think it's possible. But the team has to go through another adjustment playing with him. It's not like at the beginning of the year when you had time to adjust. Now you've got to win."

Miami is 2-2 against the Wizards this season and does not face them again. Miami has two games against Charlotte and Indiana remaining.

"I think Charlotte might have the upper hand, at least everybody thinks, from the scheduling standpoint," Riley said. "That's the nature of it right now, with three teams desperate to get in. We can't lose games at home, I don't care who we play."