Chris Bosh Injury: Heat Star Will Have Monday MRI

The Miami Heat beat the Indiana Pacers in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals on Sunday, but there was cause for concern when they lost power forward Chris Bosh to an abdominal strain late in the first half. Bosh will undergo an MRI on Monday that will give the team a better idea about when he might return to the court.

Bosh was fouled by Pacers center Roy Hibbert on a second quarter dunk. The Heat forward came down from the dunk and struggled to pull himself off the floor.

Dwyane Wade expressed optimism about Bosh's injury following the game.

"Hopefully tomorrow we'll get good news ... our brother is going to see tomorrow if he can get back out there and play with us."

The Heat managed to power through a big second half without Bosh, but his an extended absence could prove costly. Mike Prada at SB Nation explained on Monday morning why the Heat need Bosh in the lineup.

The Heat will especially miss Bosh offensively. When Bosh is in the game, James and Wade have a pick and pop partner that spaces the floor and opens up driving lanes. When he's not, the paint is clogged, the ball movement stinks and the "my turn" offense that many accuse the Heat of relying on too much rears its ugly head.

For more news, analysis, and discussion on the Heat, visit Peninsula Is Mightier and andSB Nation Tampa Bay. For the opponent's perspective throughout the series, check out Indy Cornrows and SB Nation Indiana. And for all your news and notes on the playoffs matchups, visit SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.