Chris Bosh just spoke for the first time about an abdominal injury that will sideline him indefinitely, and he gave an interesting, if slightly confusing, answer on his future status. The Miami Heat forward was asked when he might return to the court, and he said, as of now, the only way was if the season was extended.

BOSH: "This season has to be extended for me to play."

— Joseph Goodman (@MiamiHeraldHeat) May 14, 2012

That could mean a few different things. Technically, it could mean that he's available to return before Game 5 against the Indiana Pacers, when the Heat would know they were not sweeping the series. However, it's more likely that Bosh would not return until the Eastern Conference Finals at the earliest, assuming the Heat even beat the Pacers and get there.

There's also a chance that even that timeline could be optimistic.

After hearing Bosh and the team speak, I would be surprised if he plays before the Finals. If they make it that far.

— Tom Haberstroh (@tomhaberstroh) May 14, 2012

Bottom line: Heat fans should not expect Bosh back in the lineup for a while.

For more on the Pacers, head over to Indy Cornrows and SB Nation Indiana. For more on the Heat, check out Peninsula Is Mightier and SB Nation Tampa Bay.