Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler He will be sidelined for at least the final two games of his team's road trip as he continues his recovery from the illness.
The Heat's announcement means the six-time All-Star game will not be available when Miami plays atlanta hawks And the Houston Rockets this weekend.
Butler could return to action on New Year's Day when the Heat host the New Orleans Pelicans. Although the franchise will likely closely monitor Butler's recovery over the next few days before allowing him to return to the court.
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Miami Heat's Jimmy Butler leaves the court after the team's victory over the Boston Celtics in Game 6 of the NBA Eastern Conference Finals on May 27, 2022 in Boston. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer)
Butler has not played since the first quarter of Miami's Dec. 20 game against Miami Oklahoma City ThunderWhen he sprained his ankle, he left the match and was then ruled out due to illness.
Heat president Pat Riley shuts down Jimmy Butler trade rumors, addressing 'distraction' head-on
Miami has played three games since then without Butler, two due to illness and then Thursday's win in Orlando as he returned to Miami preparing for his return.
Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler warms up before Game 4 of the NBA Finals against the Denver Nuggets on June 9, 2023 in Miami. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)
He's not with the team on the road trip.
The Heat said Thursday they would not trade Butler. The 2021 NBA steals leader is favored to be moved before the Feb. 6 trade deadline, ESPN reported.
Jimmy Butler of the Miami Heat prepares to shoot a free throw against the Washington Wizards on February 2, 2024, at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. (Kenny Giarla/NBAE via Getty Images)
Heat president Pat Riley said in a statement: “We usually do not comment on rumors, but all of this speculation has become a distraction for the team and is not fair to the players and coaches.” “So we'll make it clear we're not trading Jimmy Butler.”
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Butler has not publicly expressed interest in being traded. He is averaging 18.5 points, 5.8 rebounds and 4.9 assists this season.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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