National Basketball Association

O'Neal out, Beasley back for Heat

Published Feb. 2, 2010 1:03 a.m. ET

foxsports

Heat forward Michael Beasley returned to the Miami lineup for Monday night's game against Milwaukee after missing two games with a hyperextended right knee, while center Jermaine O'Neal sat out with back stiffness.

Beasley was wearing a large brace to support the knee, but Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said the second-year player from Kansas State was cleared after evaluation.

O'Neal has been having back spasms for several days, Spoelstra said. Miami will also be without guard Mario Chalmers (torn thumb ligament) for at least a week, and possibly until the All-Star break.

Also Monday, the Bucks said little-used center Francisco Elson would miss up to six weeks after hernia surgery performed last week.