Bosh nearing return for Heat but needs full practice first

The Miami Heat have to wait a little longer for a holiday morale boost.

Chris Bosh wasn't quite ready to return for the team's Christmas Day game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday, but he's getting closer by the day. Depending on how things go Friday, Bosh's seven-game absence may even come to a close on the weekend.

"I'm looking forward to practicing and going at a good pace on it," Bosh said, admitting he thought he'd be back for the big, nationally-televised showdown with the returning LeBron James.

Sidelined since Dec. 12 with a strained left calf, Bosh has been progressing in his workouts but still needs to go through a full practice session before getting the go-ahead to suit up. The Heat play Saturday and again Monday.

Chris Andersen has been starting in Bosh's place, and while his tattoos are cool, there's no replacing Bosh's production. In 23 games, the nine-time All-Star is averaging 21.6 points and 8.2 rebounds, with the Heat playing 1.7 points per-100 possessions better when he's on the floor.

At 13-16 entering play Thursday, the Heat have disappointed but have plenty of time - and a little breathing room in the standings - to get healthy and find their groove.