Rudy Gobert out vs. Heat

The Utah Jazz will be without defensive anchor Rudy Gobert when they take on the Miami Heat.

The Jazz initially listed Gobert as a game-time decision for Thursday's clash with the Miami Heat, according to Ira Winderman of the Sun Sentinel, but the team announced just prior to tipoff that he will sit out.

Gobert is dealing with an injured ankle that he sustained Tuesday against the Cleveland Cavaliers. His status was initially listed as questionable after he missed practice Wednesday.

The 23-year-old is the linchpin for the Jazz's fourth-ranked defense, serving as a mobile and freakishly athletic rim-protector on a team that has allowed a league-best 42 percent on opponent field goals.

On the year, Gobert is averaging 8.7 points, 11.9 rebounds, and 3.1 blocks per game. In his absence, the Jazz will slide Derrick Favors to center while rookie power forward Trey Lyles will make his first career start.