Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler will miss the team’s upcoming games against the Atlanta Hawks and the Houston Rockets, the team announced. Butler, who has been sidelined with a reconditioning period for his return to competition, will remain in Miami for the duration of the road trip. He is expected to rejoin the team following the Heat’s games in Atlanta and Houston.
The Heat are set to face the Hawks in Atlanta on Saturday at 7 p.m. ET, followed by a Sunday night matchup in Houston against the Rockets. Miami will not return to Florida until New Year’s Day.
Butler’s Status and Recent Absence
Butler has not played since December 20, when he logged just seven minutes in a game against the Washington Wizards, failing to score a point. The star forward has been dealing with an unspecified “illness,” which has caused him to miss the Heat’s last three games.
Despite his absence, Butler has been a key player for Miami this season, averaging 18.5 points, 5.8 rebounds, and 4.9 assists in 20 games. The Heat currently sit at 15-13, holding sixth place in the Eastern Conference.
Looking Ahead
While Butler’s absence leaves a significant gap in Miami’s lineup, the team will continue to rely on its depth and the contributions of players like Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro. Miami’s success this season will depend on how well they can perform without their star player for the time being.
Butler’s return, when he is fully reconditioned and healthy, will be crucial to the Heat’s success as they continue to navigate the remainder of the season. Butler has long been a key figure for the Heat, and his leadership and performance will be vital as Miami seeks to improve their standing in the Eastern Conference.
Contract and Future Speculation
There have also been recent reports surrounding Butler’s future with the Heat. The 35-year-old forward has expressed frustration with past contract negotiations but has not demanded a trade. Miami Heat president Pat Riley has emphasized that the team has no intention of trading Butler, who is under contract with the Heat for the 2024-25 season.
Butler has a $52.4 million player option for the 2025-26 season, but there is speculation that he could explore free agency following this current season. The Heat, meanwhile, will likely be keen to keep him as the cornerstone of their franchise moving forward.
As the Heat continue their road trip without Butler, they will be hoping for a swift recovery and a strong return for their star player in the new year.
