Miami Heat superstar forward LeBron James was benched for Saturday's game at Portland because of nagging right groin and left ankle injuries, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said.
James took part in a pre-game workout but was put on the inactive list for the game after aggravating his sore ankle and groin Friday in the Heat's 108-103 overtime loss at Sacramento.
James, a four-time NBA Most Valuable Player who has led Miami to the past three NBA Finals and NBA titles the past two seasons, is averaging 25.4 points, 6.9 rebounds and 6.5 assists this season and had not missed a game for the Heat.
