Jalen Smith Exits Heat Game Early with Right Calf Tightness After Strong Start

Jalen Smith exited Thursday's game against the Miami Heat and will not return due to right calf tightness, an escalation from earlier minor soreness. Before his departure, Smith recorded 11 points (4-7 FG, 1-1 3Pt, 2-2 FT) and 5 rebounds (3 offensive) in 15 first-half minutes. This injury interrupts a strong January where he was averaging 12.2 points, 8.8 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 1.9 triples, and 1.0 blocks per contest. Patrick Williams is expected to see increased minutes in his absence.