Goran Dragic could return early as Friday for Heat

The year started off with so much promise for Heat guard Goran Dragic.

Despite coming off the bench for the first time in his tenure in Miami, he scored in double-figures in 14 of 18 games before being sidelined by a groin injury. Dragic missed Wednesday night's game against the Philadelphia 76ers but could return Friday versus the New York Knicks at AmericanAirlines Arena.

Without Dragic, the Heat struggled at point guard because they were also minus starter Justise Winslow. He has only played 10 games after dealing with an early-season concussion and back issues. Their absences have left the bulk of the scoring and play-making responsibilities on Jimmy Butler.

A healthy Dragic should ease the burden for Butler. Before the injury, Dragic scored at least 20 points in five games, including a season-high 25 in wins at Milwaukee and Phoenix. Dragic, who is just two years removed from his lone All-Star appearance, missed most of last year after undergoing early-season knee surgery.

He is in the last year of his contract and has overcome being nearly traded to the Dallas Mavericks in the offseason to become one of the Heat's most important cogs. The deal with the Mavs fell through at the last minute, allowing Dragic to remain in the environment he feels most comfortable.

He has often hinted he wants to retire in Miami because of family life. That was evident when he willingly accepted a reserve role before the season. During a September meeting, coach Erik Spoelstra told the 33-year-old Dragic he was planning to start the younger Winslow at point guard. While suspended teammate Dion Waiters met coming off the bench with resistance before the season began, Dragic has had no issues.

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