“I give a damn about those banners over there!” Unfazed by MVP talks, Jimmy Butler doesn’t care if he’s not eligible for any awards in case he misses too many games

Jimmy Butler is suffering from a toe injury.

“I give a damn about those banners over there!” Unfazed by MVP talks, Jimmy Butler doesn’t care if he’s not eligible for any awards in case he misses too many games

Jimmy Butler (Credits: KXAN)

Despite Jimmy Butler, their best player, missing a significant amount of time due to injury, the Miami Heat have maintained their position as one of the best teams in the Eastern Conference this season. Due to a toe injury, Butler has missed eight of the Heat’s last nine games. He is also doubtful about playing against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday.

Butler could miss out on playing enough games to be eligible for any All-NBA team in light of the league’s new participation requirement. To give players more motivation to play as many games as they can, the NBA tightened up the list of qualifying requirements for their end-of-season awards. Players who play 20 minutes or more in 65 games or more than this season are eligible for these awards.

Jimmy Butler said via the Miami Herald:

You think I am worried about some award. The only reward I give a Damm about is those banners over there. That's all I told Spo, I told Pat. I am going to help us get.
Jimmy Butler said

Butler intended to win an NBA championship when he used banners. He also mentioned discussing his ideas with Heats President Pat Riley and Coach Erik Spoelstra.

Butler’s comments perfectly capture the spirit of the Heat, a team that is renowned for its motto of selflessness, professionalism, and championship-winning. Although Butler makes it plain that winning a championship for the Heat is still his primary goal, it would still be worth it even if he doesn’t win these kinds of awards.

When is Jimmy Butler coming out of the injury?

Jimmy Butler’s toe injury has kept him out of the Miami Heat’s last four games. He was recovering from a calf injury when he hurt his toe on December 30 against the Utah Jazz, so it’s unfortunate for him. Given the star’s potential impact on the team come the postseason, the Heat’s medical staff has proceeded cautiously with him. This affects Butler’s timetable for recovery.

Jimmy Butler
Jimmy Butler (Credits: Sports Illustrated)

Wes Goldberg of The Ringer asked Butler for an update during Tuesday morning’s shootaround. Jimmy Butler said:

I actually thought it was way worse than what it was. I was scared for a much larger reason, Because of a bruise or a bone. I am just so glad it wasn't what myself and some other people may have thought.
Jimmy Butler’s update

Butler is having an amazing season with a 20-point record per game.

The Heat are 21-15, ranked fifth in the Eastern Conference, and have triumphed in six of their previous ten contests. They will still require Jimmy Butler to get back to the NBA Finals even if they remain composed and win. The Heat is 7–5 this season when Butler wasn’t out there. Based on the data, it appears that they have adjusted to the situation rather well. Everyone is looking forward to Jimmy Butler’s return.

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