(May 23, 2012) |
MIAMI—
Miami Heat forward Udonis Haslem is preparing like he will play against the Indiana Pacers in Thursday’s Game 6 of the Eastern Conference semifinals.
He will have until the league announces Wednesday if his Flagrant-1 foul on Tyler Hansbrough was upgraded to next category, which could draw a one-game suspension. After practice, Haslem said he had yet to hear from the league office.
“I’m waiting to see, but as far as I’m concerned I’m getting ready for the next game,” Haslem said.
The Heat hold a 3-2 lead in the series, but losing Haslem would be a big blow considering they are already without Chris Bosh. Haslem put his status in jeopardy when he committed a hard foul on Hansbrough in the first half of Game 5.
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Haslem hit Hansbrough with both hands across the upper body. He said he was making a play on the ball, but some thought otherwise. Pacers forward Danny Granger compared it to Los Angeles Lakers forward Metta World Peace elbowing Oklahoma City’s James Harden in the regular season.
“I’m not interested in no Danny Granger,” Haslem said. “That’s why we got league officials to look over that stuff. I’m sure Danny Granger is going to say what he had to say to help his team. So whatever, it’s unfortunate that he feels that way.”
Heat coach Erik Spoelstra declined comment until the league makes it decision. Haslem said he felt the officials got it correct with the original call and was confident he will be in uniform.
“Obviously I don’t control that process,” Haslem said. “Until I know anything else, I’m getting myself prepared to play.”
srichardson@tribune.com
