Some Heat notes moments before Wednesday’s critical game in Charlotte:
• With Luke Babbitt sidelined by a hip flexor, Erik Spoelstra has opted to start James Johnson for the first time this season.
Johnson, who has had a career year off the bench, said earlier this evening that starting for him “wouldn’t be anything out of the ordinary” and it makes no difference to him.
He made 140 starts earlier in his career.
Miami has only 10 players available. Chris Bosh (obviously), Justise Winslow, Josh McRoberts, Dion Waiters and Babbitt ware sidelined.
Babbitt missed seven games with a hip flexor earlier this season.