Majerle

Guard Dan Majerle is expected to be sidelined six weeks with a stress fracture in his left fibula. The leg has bothered Majerle since he took a spill Jan. 14 at Denver.

An MRI Tuesday revealed a stress fracture just below the knee, and Majerle was placed on the injured list. The move came just two games after guard Tim Hardaway returned to the lineup after missing 26 games with a sore knee.

Voshon Lenard started in Majerle's place Tuesday against Boston. The Heat activated rookie Tim James from the injured list.

Majerle, 34, had started every game and was averaging 8.4 points, 5.1 rebounds and 3.1 assists. His injury is a blow for a team that has been struggling in recent weeks, losing 10 of its past 20 games through Monday.

"I'm concerned about the loss of Dan because it takes a unique part out of our team," coach Pat Riley said. "It takes a defender out of there and a tough player who makes tough plays. Somewhere we have to replace that."

Riley said the Heat may re-sign forward Keith Askins, who was waived Nov. 1 after nine seasons with the team.

James, the 25th pick in last year's draft, was activated for the first time this season.

"Tim has been playing extremely well in practice," Riley said. "It's been discouraging for him not being part of the active roster. He got a little down and was not working as hard, but over the last two months he has gone to work every day, and at times he has been downright dominant in practice."