Jimmy Butler, his seven-game, team-imposed suspension completed, returned to score 18 points for the Miami Heat in a 133-113 loss to the visiting Denver Nuggets on Friday night.
The Heat suspended Butler on Jan. 3 for conduct detrimental to the team. During his time away, Butler repeated his previous trade request.
Following the Friday game, Butler answered questions at his locker while wearing a No. 45 Chicago Bulls jersey — the number Michael Jordan sported when he returned from his first retirement.
Butler said of his suspension, “There was a lot said by everybody, except for me, to tell you the truth. So, we’ll let people keep talking like they know everything and have all the answers. And then, sooner or later, the whole truth will come out. But, until then, we’ll continue to let people talk. If I’m here, I will get out there and play.”
He added about his teammates, “It felt good to get out there, compete, and actually run around with these guys. As much as everybody may think, I don’t got a problem with these guys. These guys are cool. They’re my friends. … My beef is not with them, never will be, and never has been.”
Less than two hours before tipoff, Butler said “I’m back” in a statement his agent Bernie O. Lee released on social media. The statement indicated it was a response to questions about Butler’s career plans.
Butler, 35, has been unhappy this season and requested a trade. He also has sharply criticized the organization on multiple occasions.
Miami coach Erik Spoelstra never mentioned Butler’s name during a long opening remark to start his pregame availability.
“We work in a league of complexity,” Spoelstra said. “We’re in an unusual place right now but all of it is complex. So it’s my job to prepare this team and get them ready to play at a high level, and that’s what I’m doing.
“My methods for doing it are really none of your business. You’re looking for drama, I’m looking to getting this team ready to play at a high level.”
A six-time All-Star, Butler is averaging 17.6 points, 5.4 rebounds and 4.6 assists in 23 games. This is his sixth season with Miami.
–Field Level Media
