Two weeks is a long time, but we get it. Coach Spo, we get it. The Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler made it to the court after being away for thirteen days, and head coach Erik Spoelstra couldn’t risk it. During the Heat’s recent 119-108 win over the New Orleans Pelicans, all eyes were on the returning Butler.
The arena took note when head coach Spoelstra made a surprising choice to bench star player Jimmy Butler in the fourth quarter. This game marked Butler’s return after a nearly two-week absence due to illness and conditioning, so fans were eager to see how he’d perform. However, Spoelstra decided to keep Butler on the sidelines during the final stretch in favor of a lineup that was working well together.
“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,” Coach Spo said after the game.
“13 days is a long time away and I just went with the group in the fourth.”
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) January 2, 2025
Erik Spoelstra on not fielding Jimmy Butler in the 4th Quarter 🗣️
(via @ZachWeinberger) pic.twitter.com/yx45xH7pwq
Spoelstra explained that the team had a solid rhythm going, and he wanted to give that group a shot at closing out the game. Although, in his limited 25 minutes on the court, Butler recorded nine points, four rebounds, and two assists. The numbers weren’t exactly earth-shattering, but they aren’t terrible either, especially after being away for so long.
Jimmy Butler Saw A Warm Welcome From The Miami Heat
The Heat are eagerly welcoming back star player Jimmy Butler as he returns to practice. The Texas-born forward graced the court after dealing with a troubling stomach illness that sidelined him for five games. Although it was evident that everyone on the camp missed him for a bit too long as reactions came in right after his return.
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Head coach Erik Spoelstra couldn’t have been more thrilled to have Butler back, especially after a tough road trip that left the team feeling a bit battered. Spoelstra noted how Butler’s spirit can uplift everyone and help them find a way to grow through challenges.
“Yeah, it always helps. You know, having him around, and having the spirit, and then, you know, we’re coming off of a trip where it didn’t go perfect, but it’s gratifying going through the grind,” Spoelstra added.
Asked Erik Spoelstra about the energy that Jimmy Butler brings.
— Zachary Weinberger (@ZachWeinberger) December 31, 2024
“It always helps having him around and having the spirit…” #HeatNation pic.twitter.com/TB1p9IZhju
Additionally, Bam Adebayo, the Heat’s captain, also shared his excitement about having Butler back in the mix. He emphasized how important it is to ease Butler back into the flow of the team, especially after being away.
“It was good having him around, get him back acclimated, and get him in the feel of being around the team again. Jimmy is always going to be ready. I feel like he will never let his body get too out of shape. I feel like he’s always prepared. Just had a great practice,” Adebayo said.
Adebayo praised Butler’s commitment to staying in shape and being ready to contribute whenever he’s needed. With the team sitting at seventh in the Eastern Conference and preparing for a crucial game against the New Orleans Pelicans, Butler’s timing couldn’t be better.
