Returning against the Sixers after a four-game absence with a sprained ankle, Jimmy Butler had the best evening of his season: 30 points at 8/12, 13/13 on shots accompanied by 10 rebounds and 5 assists. A flashy return which allowed the Heat to win with authority against the Sixers in crisis.
Miami plays differently when its six-time All-Star is not only on the field, but when he is also aggressive and above all in shape.
“We know what to expect when he’s healthy. He really set the tone by imposing his physical strength in this match” appreciated Erik Spoelstra. The “good health” of Jimmy Butler is precisely the most important fact to take into account if the Heat wants to regain its scarecrow costume in the East.
The second face of the Heat
Because Jimmy Butler, since his arrival in Florida, misses an average of 24 games per season due to injuries or for personal reasons.
A constant which had led the player to want “play as many matches as possible this season” and which had even pushed Pat Riley to position himself with authority against the inconstancy and arrogance of his star.
Against the Sixers, Jimmy Butler finished with the 4th highest usage rate on his team (23.1%). This advanced stat allows you to estimate the percentage of possessions that a player uses offensively.
It is therefore quite revealing of the aggressiveness of a player in attack, and in nine games played by Jimmy Butler this season, the Heat won four games (for one defeat) when this percentage exceeded 20%. Conversely, Miami experienced four setbacks when this rating did not exceed this threshold.
The Heat therefore need a more aggressive “Jimmy Buckets” and more involved in their offensive organization. “When Jimmy feels fresh physically, he will find a way to get to the throwing line. He will create contact, he will not 'flop'. He lowers his head and creates actions. But he is also able to do it with composure and the experience to do the right thing.”emphasized Erik Spoelstra, following the nine fouls caused by his player against Philadelphia.
A long break
For the second time in franchise history, Miami has a break of at least five days, while waiting to face Dallas on Sunday. The last time Miami experienced such a long break was in January 2013. With the recent injury of Terry Rozier (foot) and Jamie Jaquez Jr (ankle), Miami will be able to rest its entire squad in order to welcome the Mavericks in a meeting that looks like a test for the Heat and Jimmy Butler.
A lull ” essential “ for Tyler Herro. “I think everyone will take a few days off to heal and let their bodies recover. And then we'll get back to it and prepare for the next matches that come up.”.
