The Birdman will not take flight in Game 4.
The Birdman will not take flight in Game 4. (USATSI)

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Miami Heat big man Chris Andersen will sit out Game 4 of the Western Conference finals on Monday night, the team announced shortly before the game. He is suffering from a left thigh contusion he sustained in Game 3 on Saturday. Andersen has been excellent in the series and the Heat will need to make up for his energy, rebounding, rim protection, off-ball movement and finishing ability.

In addition, Miami announced that Rashard Lewis would start in place of Udonis Haslem. Although Lewis didn't register a point, rebound or assist in Game 3, he was +21 in 17 minutes and greatly helped the spacing while holding his own on defense. Miami head coach Erik Spoelstra called it "one of my favorite stat lines of all time" on Monday, via the Associated Press.