Whiteside ruled out for Game 4 with sprained MCL

As expected, Miami Heat center Hassan Whiteside won't play in Game 4 against the Toronto Raptors on Monday.

Whiteside was diagnosed with a sprained MCL after leaving Game 3 with an apparent knee injury. The typical recovery time for a sprained MCL is at least two weeks, and beyond that, it varies depending on the grade of the sprain. For example, Stephen Curry has been sidelined since April 24 with a Grade I sprain.

Nevertheless, Whiteside's status remains day to day, according to head coach Erik Spoelstra.

The absence of Whiteside leaves the Heat devoid of credible rim protectors. Spoelstra turned to a combination of Amar'e Stoudemire, Josh McRoberts, and Udonis Haslem to soak up minutes in the frontcourt. They combined for 12 points in 39 minutes and made little impact on defense.

Toronto, however, is dealing with an injured center of their own. Jonas Valanciunas sprained his ankle in Game 3 and was ruled out Sunday for the remainder of the second round.

The Raptors hold a 2-1 series lead.