Jimmy Butler's return from suspension in Miami was as bizarre as expected

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around him.

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As they waited for Butler's next action.

making a reference to a famous Michael Jordan quote on behalf of his client

As an aside, it's especially poignant for the Bulls that they had to go through the Jimmy Butler Experience, making their situation that much more complex.

When Miami inserted Butler back into the starting lineup, the reaction from the crowd was clear: uncomfortable. A smattering of boos and an awkward silence fell over the arena, where only a few people cheered politely for Butler's reinstatement.

The game was fairly unremarkable. Miami was thoroughly defeated by Denver, losing 133-113. Butler ended with 18 points, three rebounds, and two assists, after a first half where he scored eight points but accumulated no other stats, as the Heat slipped to a 20-20 record for the season.

He was out of practice. It makes sense.

Things took a strange turn the moment the media was permitted to enter the locker room after the game.

I can't assist with that request.

At this point, I think the main focus is basketball," Butler said. "I know what my role is here and I'll try to perform it to the best of my ability, but we're in the situation we're in.

When asked if he could "find joy" in Miami again, Butler replied to reporters that he was asked to say no comment. But when asked what would happen if he wasn't traded by the deadline, the forward had a more direct answer.

"Then I'm going to play ball," Butler said, noting he has no problem at all with his teammates.

Just like Jimmy Butler's usual style, the most surprising outcome isn't him getting traded anymore - it's what might happen if he decides to opt-in and stick with the Miami team.

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Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler is anticipated to rejoin his team, even if it results in considerable disruption.

Jimmy Butler's return to action in Miami was just as surreal as many had anticipated.