2 days Ago By Angelo Guinhawa, Hardwood Heroics
After a 13-day absence, Jimmy Butler returned to the Miami Heat lineup, but his playing time raised eyebrows when he sat out the fourth quarter. Coach Erik Spoelstra candidly addressed the decision, emphasizing the importance of easing Butler back into the game and trusting the group that was performing well. In a recent game against the New Orleans Pelicans , Butler made his return after a five-game absence due to injury and illness.
Despite his comeback, Spoelstra surprised many by not playing Butler in the fourth quarter, opting instead for a different lineup to close out the game. Miami secured a 119-108 victory , demonstrating their strength even without their All-Star forward on the court during the final moments. Butler had logged 25 minutes and contributed nine points, four rebounds, and two assists before being substituted out with just over three minutes left in the third quarter.
The coach explained his decision by noting that Butler’s extended time away from the game—thirteen days—played a significant role in his choice. He emphasized that he wanted to stick with the group that had been effective throughout the game, allowing them a chance to finish strong. Miami had built a solid lead, giving Spoelstra the confidence to rest Butler without jeopardizing the outcome of the game.
Miami’s performance through the first three quarters showcased their depth and resilience, qualities that would be essential as the season progressed. Even as the Pelicans attempted a late rally, the Heat maintained control, reinforcing their position in the Eastern Conference standings. Miami Heat Coach Erik Spoelstra Gets Real on Jimmy Butler ’s Situation With the Team Just recently, Spoelstra got real and gave his take on Butler’s situation with the team.
This can be seen in an article written by Bill Difilippo for Uproxx. Butler has never been shy about his willingness to force his way out of a place when he believes his time is up there, while the Heat are known as some of the toughest negotiators in the NBA. As such, it’s very easy to wonder if something was up with his return from an illness, as Butler was taken out of the game with 3:29 left in the third quarter and did not return.
After the game, Heat coach Erik Spoelstra addressed this, and after expressing that it had nothing to do with Miami being on a back-to-back, said that it was exclusively because of his absence. “Thirteen days is a long time away, and I just went with the group there in the fourth that was getting us the most, and to see if that group could close it out,” Spoelstra said. After the game , both Tyler Herro and Bam Adebayo expressed their excitement about Butler’s return.
Herro mentioned how valuable it was to have Butler back on the court, while Adebayo highlighted the adjustments necessary for integrating Butler back into the lineup. Their comments reflected a team dynamic eager to support each other as they continued to find their rhythm. With this victory, Miami improved their recent performance, winning four out of their last five games.
As they look ahead to upcoming challenges, the team is aiming to build on this momentum, knowing Butler’s presence would only enhance their chances of success in the remainder of the season. In any case, a lot of eyes will be on him to see whether he remains with the team or not. This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.
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