Jimmy Butler's agent shares Heat star's 2-word statement on highly anticipated return after 7-game suspension
Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler will return to the lineup on Friday against the Denver Nuggets after serving a seven-game suspension. The Heat organization suspended Butler for "conduct detrimental to the team" following his trade request.
Butler announced his return with a two-word statement through his agent, Bernie Lee, recreating Michael Jordan's 1995 "I'm back" message. The six-time champion retired for 17 months from the NBA to pursue a baseball career. After his short stint playing a different sport, "MJ" returned.
"I'm back," Lee quoted Butler as saying in a statement
If that wasn't enough, Butler posted pictures on his Instagram story showing off his No. 45 Chicago Bulls jersey.
When Jordan returned to Chicago in 1995, he wore a different number, 45. He played 17 games during the 1994-95 NBA season, averaging 26.9 points, 6.9 rebounds and 5.3 assists on 41.1% shooting from the field.
Eventually, he reverted to his iconic No. 23 jersey the following season.
As for Butler, there have been no reports on whether he has changed his jersey number.
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Jimmy Butler to start for the Heat
Despite Jimmy Butler's suspension, the Miami Heat still trust that he'll give it his all against the Nuggets. According to ESPN's Tim Bontemps, head coach Erik Spoelstra will start Butler on Friday. Butler will start the game along with Duncan Robinson, Tyler Herro, Haywood Highsmith and Bad Adebayo
“You’re looking for drama. I’m looking for getting this team ready to play at a high level,” Spoelstra said ahead of the game.
“I feel this lineup gives us the best chance to win tonight."
Butler has played 22 games this season, averaging 17.6 ppg, 5.5 rpg and 4.7 apg on 55.2% shooting, the lowest he's had since joining Miami in 2019.
During his suspension, the All-Star had a one-on-one talk with Heat executives, including Team President Pat Riley. According to ESPN's Shams Charania, the player made it clear that he wants to move on.
Additionally, he reportedly informed Riley that he is not interested in signing a new deal with the Heat. However, he will exercise his $52 million player option for the 2025-26 season.