The Miami Heat are set to resume action after the NBA All-Star break with a road matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night. Jimmy Butler, who took time off to cope with the loss of a family member, has rejoined team practices in preparation for Friday’s game, according to Ira Winderman of The Sun-Sentinel.
Butler, who hasn’t played since February 7, is anticipated to return for Friday’s game. Additionally, there are a few other Heat players listed on the injury report, as reported by Winderman: “Tyler Herro is questionable due to foot discomfort, while Richardson (shoulder), Rozier (knee), and Smith (knee) are sidelined but will travel with the team. Robinson will play, albeit with a shoulder sleeve.”
Despite Butler’s absence, the Heat managed to secure a 2-1 record during this period, with their sole loss against the Boston Celtics. They secured victories against the Milwaukee Bucks and Philadelphia 76ers just before the All-Star break, with Nikola Jovic delivering an impressive 24-point performance against the Bucks.
Butler has been the Heat’s top scorer this season, averaging 21.4 points per game along with 5.5 rebounds and 4.6 assists, and he has recorded six 20-plus point games in the last seven outings prior to Friday night.
Currently, the Heat are tied with the Orlando Magic for 7th place in the Eastern Conference, trailing the Indiana Pacers by just half a game. As the competition intensifies in the Eastern Conference and significant moves were made at the NBA trade deadline, the Heat need a strong finish to the season to avoid the Play-In Tournament.
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