Chris Bosh’s trek back to the hardwood has hit another snag.
Though the 32-year-old has been overwhelmingly optimistic about returning to the court in time for the start of this season, he apparently failed a physical and, as such, will not be cleared to participate in the Miami Heat’s training camp, according to Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald:
A complication has arisen in medical tests involving Heat forward Chris Bosh, derailing his attempted comeback, according to a source.
The complication involved evidence of some continued clotting and is believed to be related to one of two previous blood clot episodes. Those episodes sidelined Bosh after the All-Star break each of the past two seasons.
Though the complication is not considered life-threatening if treated, it requires medication and playing with it is considered unrealistic.
Here’s Jackson with more:
Heat expected to release statement on Bosh soon. They have not commented to this point because of clause in CBA giving player right…
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) September 23, 2016
..to approve timing of release of information regarding serious or potentially life-threatening condition.So Heat simply following ruleshere
— Barry Jackson (@flasportsbuzz) September 23, 2016
This really, really sucks.
The most important thing, of course, is that Bosh be able to live a healthy, regular life away from the court. That should be everyone’s first concern. Bosh will no doubt be upset, as will fans, but real life is the priority.
That being said, FUCK THIS.
Bosh is a spectacular player, still in his prime, who will inevitably wind up in the Hall of Fame. This is categorically unfair to him, and his legacy, and his incredible skill. Even now, 13 years into his career, he remains an ideal big—someone who stretches the floor, moves the ball with above-average frequency and provides understated defense. He can still help the Heat; he can still play like a star.
Alas, we don’t really know if he’ll ever get another chance. It’s important to note that we can’t draw any sweeping conclusions from the preliminary news, but this is nevertheless concerning. Bosh missed the latter halves of each of the last two seasons with similar blood clot issues, and if he needs to remain on blood thinners for the rest of his life, or for a protracted period of time, it’s unclear if he’ll be able/allowed to play.
Hopefully Bosh’s career isn’t over. He has three years left on his five year deal, and it’d be great to see him finish it out, without restriction. But reality is starting to set in, and that reality is we can’t be sure what lies ahead.
