Jimmy Butler is “glad” to go to play the Philadelphia 76ers in the play-in round.
The first game of the Eastern Conference Play-In Tournament pits the Miami Heat against the Philadelphia 76ers on Wednesday.
In the regular-season finale, the Heat easily defeated the Toronto Raptors, but things only get harder from here on out. Although facing the Sixers and reigning MVP Joel Embiid at the Wells Fargo Center is a difficult job, Heat player Jimmy Butler is upbeat about the prospect.
“I don’t know the answer to that question. We could have performed better at home. I’m not sure. Our backs are on the wall a little bit whenever we go on the road, Butler said. “I guess we get out of our comfort zone, and then we really start making things happen, so I’m actually kind of glad we’re on the road.”
The guard Jalen Brunson and the New York Knicks will face the Heat in the first round if they prevail on Wednesday. Miami will play the victor of the Atlanta Hawks vs. Chicago Bulls game if they lose. To have an opportunity to play against the top-seeded Boston Celtics, play in game on Wednesday.
When the Play-In Tournament begins, the Heat and Sixers are almost fully recovered. After missing 20 games because of a foot ailment, guard Tyler Herro is back in the starting lineup. But guards Duncan Robinson and Terry Rozier are recovering from back and neck problems, respectively. Aside from guard De’Anthony Melton, the 76ers’ rotation is at full strength.
Inside The Heat welcomes Anthony Pasciolla as a contributing writer. You may follow him on Instagram at @anthony.pasciolla or send him an email at ampasciolla@gmail.com.
