Amar'e Stoudemire (knee) didn't play in Thursday's win over the Timberwolves.

Stoudemire (knee) didn't play in Thursday's win over the Timberwolves.

Analysis:

If the Heat's prior usage of Stoudemire offers any indication, it appears the team was simply resting him for the first game of a back-to-back with the intention of having him available for Friday's game against the Pacers. Stoudemire has been receiving regular time off from games and practices in an effort to manage the soreness in his creaky knees, and that trend could persist throughout the season. It's expected that he'll be able to play 10 to 15 minutes on Friday night, but the Heat should clarify Stoudemire's availability before the game tips off.