The Miami Heat will be an interesting team to watch during the 2024-25 NBA season as it seems they’ve fallen behind the rest of the Eastern Conference contenders, at least on paper.
The battle at the top is likely between the Boston Celtics, New York Knicks and Philadelphia 76ers, followed by rising rosters like the Orlando Magic and Cleveland Cavaliers.
Miami has always been competitive under Pat Riley and Erik Spoelstra, but this year the Heat could have their work cut out for themselves.
While Bam Adebayo looks ready to take the mantle as the best player on the team, their playoff hopes still hinge on Jimmy Butler, who is beginning to show signs of wear.
The 35-year-old is at a crossroads with Miami as he has an option to leave the franchise after this season.
For now, he remains focused on winning with the Heat and recently said he would be suiting up for their preseason game against the New Orleans Pelicans.
“Jimmy Butler said he expects to play tomorrow vs. Pelicans. Josh Richardson still out,” Anthony Chiang of the Miami Herald reported.
Jimmy Butler said he expects to play tomorrow vs. Pelicans.
Josh Richardson still out. https://t.co/hcGmrCixl6
— Anthony Chiang (@Anthony_Chiang) October 12, 2024
Butler suffered a knee injury at the end of last season and made his return to the court in the preseason opener against the Charlotte Hornets, so it’s good to see that he’ll be available again.
Managing his reps throughout the rest of the preseason and the regular season will be key in ensuring he’s as fresh as possible, because the Heat will need him to make any sort of postseason run.
NEXT: Tyler Herro Reveals His Status For The Preseason
