MIAMI -- Center Jermaine O'Neal was replaced in the starting lineup for Miami Friday night because of concussion-like symptoms stemming from a hit Wednesday night from Atlanta's Zaza Pachulia.Although O'Neal was on the 12-man active list, the Heat listed Joel Anthony as their starting center, hurting their chance to fight off elimination in this best-of-seven series.
While O'Neal was a surprise scratch, Hawks forward Marvin Williams must have had a good healthy lunch because his sprained right wrist suddenly healed enough so he could play.
After telling reporters in the morning that Williams would not be available, Atlanta coach Mike Woodson shifted gears before the game and said Williams would be in uniform after missing Games 3, 4 and 5 with his injury.
"It's been frustrating sitting out,'' Williams said before he took the court for pre-game warmups. "Even if it's not 100 percent, hopefully, I can give us something.''
The Hawks were without center Al Horford, but they were helped by Williams' return as they try to close out the series in Miami.
Williams played in only 61 games this season, missing games because of a sore lower back, a shoulder strain and a concussion. He averaged 13.9 points during the season but only 10.5 in his two playoff games.
