Nicolas Batum (ankle) appears doubtful for Saturday's Game 3 matchup with the Heat according to head coach Steve Clifford, Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer reports.

Batum (ankle) appears doubtful for Saturday's Game 3 matchup with the Heat according to head coach Steve Clifford, Rick Bonnell of the Charlotte Observer reports.

Analysis:

Batum exited during the fourth quarter of Wednesday's loss to the Heat after spraining his left ankle. He has experienced similar injuries to his ankle earlier in the season and it seems unlikely he'll be ready to go by Saturday. Look for an official decision to be announced in the next couple days. Jeremy Lin is likely to take over at shooting guard if Batum is ruled out, with Jeremy Lamb, Courtney Lee, Troy Daniels, and Marvin Williams all possibly seeing extra minutes as well.