Could Dion Waiters’ ankle surgery be coming earlier than expected?

Dion Waiters’ ankle injury is a problem. His play has suffered because of it, and really his absence has not had a negative impact on the Heat. Put simply, the Heat are surging right now and doing so without Dion.

According to the Associated Press, Dion is getting a second opinion on his ankle, and obviously it’s caused some speculation that Waiters might be getting ankle surgery sooner than later. Just a week ago he made it clear that he’d only consider surgery in the offseason and didn’t plan to miss much time. Yet, it’s been six games, and still there’s been no update on his return. It would be fair to assume (given this second opinion and the lack of updates) that he’s at least considering an earlier surgery.

As reported by the Miami Herald, Spoelstra refuted any early surgery, but also didn’t exactly rule it out saying:

“We’re not at that point right now,” “He’s not playing tonight and he’s doing all of his rehab and rest. If anything happens and it takes the next step between the training staff and Dion, we’ll go there. But we’re not right now.”

When Dion is healthy he’s a difference maker and a huge part of this team. Depending on the extent of his injury and with the Heat playing well in his absence, an earlier surgery date might be a solid decision.