Heat guard Pelle Larsson exits game vs. Celtics with facial injury

Larsson was replaced in the second quarter after taking an elbow to the face from Jaylen Brown.

Published on Feb. 6, 2026

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Miami Heat guard Pelle Larsson was forced to exit Friday's game against the Boston Celtics in the second quarter after taking an elbow to the face from Celtics forward Jaylen Brown. Larsson, who had contributed 5 rebounds and 3 assists in 12 minutes of play, was replaced by Andrew Wiggins and did not return to the game. Simone Fontecchio started the second half in Larsson's place.

Why it matters

Larsson's injury is a significant blow to the Heat, who are already dealing with a number of key injuries this season. The team will need to rely on their bench depth to overcome Larsson's absence as they continue their push for a playoff spot.

The details

The incident occurred with 5:01 left in the second quarter, when Brown spun in the paint and his elbow struck Larsson in the face. Larsson was bleeding and had to be replaced by Wiggins. Fontecchio started the second half in Larsson's place.

  • The injury occurred with 5:01 left in the second quarter of the Heat vs. Celtics game on Friday, February 6, 2026.

The players

Pelle Larsson

A guard for the Miami Heat who was forced to exit Friday's game against the Celtics due to a facial injury.

Jaylen Brown

A forward for the Boston Celtics whose elbow struck Larsson in the face, causing the injury.

Andrew Wiggins

A player for the Miami Heat who replaced Larsson after he exited the game.

Simone Fontecchio

A player for the Miami Heat who started the second half in Larsson's place.

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What’s next

The Heat will need to provide an update on the severity of Larsson's injury and his timeline for return. If he is unable to play, the team will have to rely on their bench depth to fill his role in the lineup.

The takeaway

Larsson's injury is a setback for the Heat, who are already dealing with a number of key injuries this season. The team's depth will be tested as they try to overcome Larsson's absence and continue their push for a playoff spot.