Conventional wisdom in the NBA states that late in the postseason, series often fall in favor of the team with fewer injuries.
If that’s the case, the Heat would appear to be even more trouble than previously thought. In Game 4 of the NBA Finals on Friday night, Miami’s mascot Burnie was reportedly sent to the emergency room by a punch from ex-UFC champion Conor McGregor in a promotional skit gone horribly awry.
Despite the setback, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra provided a positive update on Burnie on Sunday afternoon, indicating the basketball-nosed anthropomorphic fireball will make his return if Miami forces a Game 6.
Erik Spoelstra asked about Burnie the mascot taking a punch from Connor McGregor but being ready for next game:
“That’s the Miami Heat toughness we’re talking about.” 😂 pic.twitter.com/nYlN1BdkB7
— Will Manso (@WillManso) June 11, 2023
“That’s the Miami Heat toughness that we’re talking about,” Spoelstra said, grinning. “He should’ve been allowed to take the first swing. We won’t reveal who [Burnie] is, but he’s tough, to take that punch and get back up. He’s not gonna miss any time.”
Sam Amick of The Athletic reported Saturday that the man who plays Burnie “was given pain medication by the doctor and has since been sent home and is doing well.”
Rocky the Mountain Lion and the Nuggets will attempt to deliver a knockout blow to Burnie and the Heat on Monday evening in Denver.