Bosh fails physical, evidence of blood clotting discovered

The Miami Heat concluded that Chris Bosh could not be cleared after evidence of continued clotting was discovered in a physical, Barry Jackson of the Miami Herald reports.

The team couldn't reveal the diagnosis as per the collective bargaining agreement, but did say in a release that Bosh can't be cleared and there is no timetable for his return.

Blood clots ended the forward's last two seasons. After the latest flare-up was discovered in February, Heat doctors warned Bosh that his career was likely over.

The latest complication is not considered life-threatening if treated, but Bosh cannot play while on blood thinners. There is a significant risk that Bosh could get cut on the court.

Bosh insisted all summer that he was healthy and ready to return. The Heat stayed mum publicly, but reports suggest they held a similar expectation that he would be cleared. However, all hope of a return was ruled out when an issue arose in his blood work resulting from the physical earlier this week.

While Bosh's future is unclear, the Heat will not allow him to suit up without receiving medical clearance.

Jackson notes that the entire ordeal has strained Bosh's relationship with the franchise. Bosh found a doctor in March who was receptive to clearing him, but Heat doctors strongly disagreed and kept him on the sidelines.

Bosh still has three guaranteed seasons and $76 million remaining on his current contract, which he'll receive regardless of whether he plays. The Heat could apply to remove his contract from their books (for salary-cap purposes) after Feb. 9, if a doctor jointly appointed by the league and the Players Association agrees that Bosh's condition is life-threatening.