Heat’s Jimmy Butler Takes Leave of Absence After Family Member’s Death
Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler is taking a leave of absence following a death in his family. The identity of the family member is unknown at this time.
“Jimmy Butler has been granted a leave of absence as he deals with the death of a family member,” Butler’s agent, Bernie Lee, said in a statement. “Jimmy and his family ask for privacy at this point in time as they navigate this loss. Updates will be given when appropriate.”
Butler, 34, is in the midst of his 13th NBA season out of Marquette. The six-time All Star is averaging 21.4 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.6 assists this season for the Heat. Miami is currently the No. 8 seed in the Eastern Conference at 28–24.
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The Heat will take on the Boston Celtics on Sunday at 2 p.m. ET on ABC without Butler. The Heat’s subsequent game is Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET on the road against the Milwaukee Bucks.