Jimmy Butler Questionable for NBA Cup Game

Miami Heat's star forward Jimmy Butler is officially ruled out for Friday's NBA Cup game against the Indiana Pacers due to a right ankle sprain, marking his third consecutive absence. Despite his ongoing recovery efforts, head coach Erik Spoelstra stated that Butler's return remains uncertain. Meanwhile, the Pacers are looking to bounce back after losing in last year's in-season tournament final and are facing injury challenges of their own, with Andrew Nembhard and Aaron Nesmith sidelined. The Heat currently hold a 4-6 record, while the Pacers are at 5-6, both teams hoping to improve their standings. Bennedict Mathurin has stepped up for Indiana, averaging 23.0 points in his recent starts, compensating for the missing wings. The matchup is crucial for both teams as they seek momentum in the tournament.