Jimmy Butler knocks down a three-pointer from the corner for the Heat.
The Miami Heat faced a significant scare during their play-in game against the Philadelphia 76ers on April 17, 2024, when Jimmy Butler suffered an injury scare in the opening quarter. As the quarter was winding down, Butler found himself with a breakaway opportunity after a basket by the 76ers. Attempting to draw a foul on Kelly Oubre, Butler pump-faked, causing Oubre to fly by, but landed awkwardly, clutching his right knee in pain. Despite the distressing moment, Butler managed to shoot his free throws, though he split the pair, and continued playing without missing a single possession. He remained in the game until being substituted out as part of the normal rotation midway through the second quarter.
Butler’s presence is crucial for the Heat, having led them to two Finals appearances, including an unexpected run as the No. 8 seed last season. Although Butler missed 22 games during the regular season due to injury, he remains integral to the team’s performance on both offense and defense.
Fortunately, it seems that the scare was just that—a scare. However, Butler’s knee may require monitoring heading into either the second play-in game (if the Heat lose) or the first-round playoff series against the New York Knicks (if the Heat win).
