In yesterday’s blowout win against the Denver Nuggets, Jimmy Butler dropped 22 points, 7 assists, and 4 rebounds. He looked good, healthy, and ready to lead his team through the long battles ahead.
But, curiously, Butler was absent from Sunday’s practice for reasons that have yet to be revealed. That alone doesn’t mean anything, but some comments from his teammate, Jae Crowder, has stirred up a lot of questions as to just what the heck is happening.
To Miami Herald reporter Anthony Chaing, Crowder said something about Butler being in quarantine.
Jae Crowder on Jimmy Butler's status: "We want to talk to him as soon as he gets out of quarantine or whatever he's in. But it's just next-man-up mentality."
No update from Heat other than saying Butler was not at practice today because of an "excused absence."
— Anthony Chiang (@Anthony_Chiang) August 2, 2020
It won’t be along before we have an official explanation, but it’s not going to stop all the talk. Did Butler test positive? Did he get injured in the Denver game? Did he somehow break quarantine? Is it just a day off?
??????? So does he just need rest? A mental day? Is he sick? Did something personal happen? I'm probably trippin but I'm worried tho
— Kal-El Atreides 💍 (@Superfan_K) August 2, 2020
I feel like he missed a test, that’s all and he’s fine. I hope so
— Papi Hokage- Champs 2x 🏆🏆 (@MeaglePant) August 2, 2020
Why would Jae say anything, if it's just a day off for Jimmy
— Dennis Anderson (@doc2400) August 2, 2020
Either way, if Butler does and up having to miss time, it will be a significant blow to the Heat. Even with Bam, Crowder, Dragic, and Herro, it will be hard for them to make up for the absence of their leader, who also happens to be a 5x All-Star.
Let’s hope it’s nothing serious so the Heat can continue their run at full-strength.
