Wade Has Cast Removed, Walker Undergoes Successful Surgery

MIAMI, Jan. 19 - Miami HEAT President Pat Riley announced today that rookie guard Dwyane Wade, who injured his right wrist in a fall at Washington on Dec. 26 and has missed 10 of Miami’s last 12 games, had the cast removed from his wrist today and had the wrist placed in a splint. Wade was placed on the injured list on Jan. 2 with bone contusions on his right wrist. He will now begin therapy and can practice on a limited basis.

Additionally, forward Samaki Walker underwent successful surgery this morning. Walker had bone spurs removed from his right ankle. The one-hour, 45-minute procedure was performed at Baptist Hospital by HEAT physician Dr. Harlen Selesnick. Walker, who has appeared in 20 games this season and has averaged 3.9 points, 4.1 rebounds and 14.6 minutes, is expected to be out at least a month.