Jimmy Butler returns to Heat lineup against Nuggets

Jimmy Butler is set to return to the Miami Heat's lineup on Friday against the Denver Nuggets after serving a seven-game suspension for conduct deemed detrimental to the team. This situation follows a tumultuous period where Butler expressed a desire for a trade and frustration over his role, stating he has lost his joy in playing basketball in Miami. Despite the team’s efforts to accommodate his trade request, no deal has been finalized, and the Heat did not list him on their injury report, indicating they expect him to play. Butler's last game was on January 2, where he scored only nine points, fueling ongoing tensions between him and the franchise. Butler is anticipated to meet with team officials, including Coach Erik Spoelstra, to discuss his future with the team. The Heat's performance during his absence was 3-4, highlighting the team’s struggles without him.