Miami Heat's Terry Rozier Expected Ready For Knicks Game Despite Knee Discomfort

The Miami Heat and guard Terry Rozier were apparently taking the cautious approach.

Rozier left Sunday's victory against the Washington Wizards with knee soreness before returning. He is expected to play Tuesday in a key game against the New York Knicks.

"He just wanted to make sure that he was warmed up and everything was good," Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. "He was cleared. He said he'll be ready for Tuesday." 

The Heat were likely using caution because Rozier missed four games earlier this season because of a sprained knee. They want him healthy as possible for the next eight games while they try to improve their playoff seedings.

Rozier has become an integral part of the team since he was acquired at the trade deadline. He had 27 points, including five 3-pointers in the victory against the Wizards.

"Terry is getting a lot more comfortable," Spoelstra said. "He really is pure. He wants to help. He wants to contribute. He wants to make things better ... Offensively, it's just taking a little bit of time. When you're thinking of others so much and you're hearing it, `You have to be you,' that's easier said than done."'

It seems Rozier is finally adjusting to playing alongside Bam Adebayo and Jimmy Butler, the Heat's leading scorer. Rozier was more of a primary scorer when he played with the Charlotte Hornets but now his shots come within the offense.

"Just trying to look for our available shot," Rozier said. "I can score the ball. I've been like that all my life. Obviously, I can play-make for guys, too. Just trying to put things together out there with Jimmy and Bam. We've got Duncan. We've got a lot of weapons. Just trying to use it to our advantage and get our best shot."