Miami Heat fans collectively held their breaths when Jimmy Butler left the game against the Denver Nuggets on Friday after turning his ankle.
The six-time All-Star suffered the injury midway through the first quarter when he tried to plant his right foot to change directions while being guarded by Jamal Murray.
Butler immediately went down in pain before getting up and walking toward Miami's locker room.
The Heat later announced the forward would not return due to a right ankle sprain. His latest injury puts an end to a streak of health through back-to-back seasons. The 34-year-old has never been one to play every game, but through the last two years, he's amassed 60 games both times, not having done that in any of the five seasons prior.
Butler hadn't missed a game this season for Miami, averaging 18.1 points, 5.3 assists and 5.3 rebounds through seven appearances. His camp will surely the injury is minor as it could be a blow for the five-time All-NBAer's long-time prospects as he's in the midst of a contract year.
The organization and Butler failed to come to terms on a contract extension ahead of the 2024-25 campaign, and now he's playing out the final season of a three-year, $146 million deal.
After taking on the Nuggets, the 3-4 Heat will stay on the road and visit the Minnesota Timberwolves.
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