Miami Heat center Kel'el Ware (knee) will remain sidelined on Friday against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The rookie big man has to sit out a third consecutive contest due to a left knee sprain. During Ware's absence, Kevin Love has stepped into the starting lineup for a couple of games. However, the veteran has still had limited playing time, averaging 6.0 points and 7.5 rebounds in 14.0 minutes. Haywood Highsmith and Kyle Anderson have also taken on expanded roles in recent games.

Miami Heat forward Andrew Wiggins (ankle) is in danger of missing Friday's matchup against the Minnesota Timberwolves, as the team lists him as questionable. The former Minnesota man has sat out four games due to a right ankle sprain. With Wiggins on the shelf, Haywood Highsmith has returned to the rotation, with Kyle Anderson also having a bigger role in Erik Spoelstra's plans. Highsmith has averaged 10.4 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.2 assists over the past five games.

Oklahoma City Thunder guard/forward Luguentz Dort (knee) will not suit up for Friday's contest against the Portland Trail Blazers. He's among OKC's lengthy list of injuries due to a knee issue. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (rest), Jalen Williams (wrist), Isaiah Hartenstein (nose), and Cason Wallace (knee) will also be out on Friday, with Chet Holmgren (lower leg) potentially joining them on the sidelines. In this situation, the likes of Alex Caruso, Aaron Wiggins, and Isaiah Joe should get plenty of extra work in Friday's game.

Oklahoma City Thunder forward/center Chet Holmgren (lower leg) is listed as questionable for Friday's game against the Portland Trail Blazers. He may be out for a second consecutive game due to a right lower leg contusion. If Holmgren doesn't play, the Thunder will have all their regular starters out on Friday. Jaylin Williams, Kenrich Williams, Branden Carlson, and Dillon Jones will presumably pick up the available frontcourt minutes.

Oklahoma City Thunder center Isaiah Hartenstein (nose) will not play on Friday against the Portland Trail Blazers. He is forced to take some time off due to a nasal fracture. Chet Holmgren (lower leg) may also miss the action, as he has been listed as questionable for the game, meaning Jaylin Williams may have to take on the bulk of the work at the center position. Kenrich Williams and Branden Carlson could also see time at the five position.