While Josh McRoberts’ recovery from toe surgery he had over the off-season has taken longer than expected, the new Miami Heat forward should be ready to play for the regular season opener at the end of the month, according to a report by the Miami Herald’s Barry Jackson.

Heat forward Josh McRoberts, who hasn’t played in preseason because of toe surgery, said he expects to be ready for the Heat’s opener Oct. 29 against Washington.

McRoberts sat out each of Miami’s first two preseason games, as well as the team scrimmage before that. Shawne Williams has been starting in his place and even though Williams played well in the first preseason match against the Pelicans, struggled vs the Magic Tuesday night.

Chris Bosh and McRoberts will form a stretch-big duo unlike any other in the NBA, and you know Erik Spoelstra will be excited to get those two going in action. Both of them are the only Heat players currently locked up with guaranteed deals beyond 2016. McRoberts is a major part of this team, and I’m just excited to see what he can do for us.

While I’m a bit nervous about how long this recovery is taking, McRoberts has been traveling and practicing with the team–both encouraging signs that this isn’t too serious. It’s possible Spo and the training staff are just being cautious.

Follow @wcgoldbergFollow @FanSidedHEAT