After missing four games due to a calf ιnjury, Jimmy Butler made his comeback on Saturday against the Utah Jazz. Yet, because to yet another unlucky ιnjury, the defending Eastern Conference Finals MVP was unable to complete the game. In the third quarter, while driving to the basket, Butler hurt his right foot.

After leaving the game due to ιnjury, the six-time All-Star did not come back. In 23 minutes on the court, he contributed eight points, two boards, and an assist. Following the Heat’s 117-109 loss to the Jazz, the team made no announcement regarding his situation.

Erik Spoelstra, head coach of the Miami Heat, updated Ohm Youngmisuk on Butler’s condition before Monday’s game against the Los Angeles Clippers:

“The x-rays taken on Jimmy Butler were negаtive.  Against the Clippers tonight, he will not be playing. “Kyle Lowry is in.”

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In spite of Kyle Lowry’s green light to play, the Miami Heat still won’t have enough players to compete with the Los Angeles Clippers. The following players will not be able to participate: Haywood Highsmith (concussion), Caleb Martin (ankle), Dru Smith (knee surgery), and Josh Richardson (facet syndrome).

Without Jimmy Butler, the Heat have been performing admirably. During his absence, they went undefeated in all four games. Among the teams they defeated during that time were the Philadelphia 76ers and the Golden State Warriors.

In Butler’s absence, Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro—who are also recovering from injuries—have been spectacular. With Butler’s potential absence for a few more matches, Spoelstra will lean even more on them.

If Jimmy Butler does really return, when?

Jimmy Butler’s return date has not been announced by the Miami Heat. They will not rush him back into the lineup, though. Since his arrival, Miami has been extremely careful with him. As much time as he needs to get well, the squad will provide it to him.

next their encounter with the Clippers, Miami will face the next five teams: the Orlando Magic, OKC Thunder, Houston Rockets, Phoenix Suns, and Los Angeles Lakers. Any of those games could have “Jimmy Buckets” making a comeback.

The injuries are likely to increase playing time for RJ Hampton, Nikola Jovic, Jamal Cain, Duncan Robinson, and Jaime Jaquez Jr. In order to get more out of his remaining starters, Erik Spoelstra must keep trying.