“Jimmy Butler has been granted a leave of absence as he deals with the death of a family member.”
According to a statement from his agent Bernie Lee, Miami Heat big Jimmy Butler will miss Sunday’s game against the Celtics due to a family member’s passing.
The statement says, “Jimmy Butler has been granted a leave of absence as he deals with the death of a family member.” “At this time, as they process this loss, Jimmy and his family ask for privacy. There will be updates when necessary.
The duration of the leave of absence is still unknown.
Butler is averaging 21.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 4.6 assists this season after appearing in 37 of the Heat’s 42 games. In Miami’s victory over San Antonio on Wednesday, he scored 17 points.
Against the Heat this season, the Celtics are 2-0. Boston triumphed 143-110 in Miami on January 25. On October 27, the Celtics won 119-111 in Boston.
Miami’s seven-game victory in the Eastern Conference Finals last season removed the Celtics from the postseason.
This Sunday’s game, which airs on ABC, will be the final regular-season meeting between the two clubs in 2024.
