MIAMI -- Out against the Phoenix Suns on Wednesday, Miami Heat guard Dwyane Wade will not fly with the
team to Washington and isn't expected to play when the team visits
the Wizards on Friday night.
Wade had two wisdom teeth removed Tuesday and doctors are
concerned about the risks he'd take by flying, including the
possibility that the infection in his jaw could spread elsewhere.
He is also expected to miss a party in his honor Thursday night
in New York, where he would have received Sports Illustrated's
"Sportsman of the Year" award. Some of Wade's family members are
expected to attend in his place.
Although team officials haven't completely ruled out the
possibility of Wade joining the Heat before Friday's game, the more
likely date for his possible return is Saturday, when Miami hosts
Memphis.
Wade, who was not with the Heat for their game Wednesday, is averaging 28 points this season. The Heat were
scheduled to fly to Washington after the game.