Report: Adebayo targeting return Monday vs. Raptors

Miami Heat center Bam Adebayo is aiming to make his return to the court against the Toronto Raptors on Monday, ESPN's Adrian Wojnarowski reports.

The two-time All-Defensive selection last played on Nov. 29 and has been out for six weeks after undergoing thumb surgery. Adebayo is averaging 18.7 points, 10.2 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.1 steals across 18 games this season.

Adebayo's return will likely diminish the production of Omar Yurtseven, who has carved out a role in Miami's rotation with the former sidelined. The Turkish big man has hauled in double-digit rebounds in 12 straight contests (eight starts) and posted 10.3 points and 13.8 boards per game over that span. Dewayne Dedmon should also feature less prominently in the Heat frontcourt with Adebayo back in action.

The Heat are currently 26-15 and sit tied for second in the Eastern Conference. Miami has gone 16-7 in the 23 games Adebayo has missed.