Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler is under medical evaluation for a suspected MCL injury to his right knee following a painful incident in Wednesday night’s NBA play-in tournament against the Philadelphia 76ers.
The injury occurred dramatically at the end of the first quarter when Butler, attempting a fast-break layup, fell awkwardly after a collision with Kelly Oubre Jr.
Describing the incident, Butler recounted, “I fell, he landed, and my knee just didn’t hold up well.” Visibly in distress, he managed to get up and continued playing, albeit with difficulty, making one of two free throws immediately after the fall.
NBA NEWS & PLAYOFFS: Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat Updates
Butler, who remained in the game despite the setback, finished with 12 points on 3-for-14 shooting. His performance reflected the discomfort he endured as the Heat relinquished a 12-point halftime lead and ultimately fell 105-104 to the Sixers.
The injury’s timing could not be worse, with Miami scheduled to host the Chicago Bulls on Friday night in a crucial game that will determine the Eastern Conference’s No. 8 seed.
Reflecting on his condition post-game, Butler expressed concern, “It felt like I couldn’t do too much, which sucks with the timing of the game and everything. I hope that I wake up tomorrow and can still stick-and-move. Right now, I can’t say that’s the case.”
NBA NEWS & PLAYOFFS: Jimmy Butler, Miami Heat Updates
Butler attempted to play through the pain, hoping for an adrenaline surge that would allow him to contribute significantly in the second half. However, he struggled, particularly in the final quarter, where he took no shots in the last four minutes and admitted, “I wasn’t able to do anything on either side of the ball. I think I hurt us more than I helped.”
The Heat now face a replay of last year’s scenario, fighting for a playoff spot as the eighth seed in a home game. “We just need to get one, and then we’ll worry about the next one,” Butler stated, focused on the immediate challenge ahead.
Butler’s MRI scheduled for Thursday will be crucial in determining the extent of his injury and his availability for the upcoming playoff push.
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