Jimmy Butler injury update: Heat star suffers knee injury in Play-In Tournament loss to 76ers

For the Heat to complete a Play-In-Tournament-to-NBA Finals journey for a second year, they’ll need the best version of Jimmy Butler. This year, Butler’s role in the journey is off to a rocky start.

Late in the first quarter of Miami’s Play-In Tournament loss to Philadelphia, Butler went down in clear pain after a fall to the floor. He did not exit the game but was visibly impacted and hobbled after grabbing at his left leg.

What does this mean for Butler and the Heat? Here’s what you need to know about what he is dealing with.

MORE: Live updates, highlights from Heat vs. 76ers Play-In game

What is Jimmy Butler’s injury?

Butler is feared to have an MCL injury in his left knee, according to The Athletic’s Shams Charania.

Butler went down after pump-faking and drawing a foul on Kelly Oubre Jr. With Oubre in the air, Butler attempted a layup, fell to the ground, and grabbed at his knee after his defender fell on his left leg.

Here’s the play where it happened.

After the game, Spoelstra said that Butler’s knee began to limit him more. Butler was notably inactive during some of Miami’s offensive possessions and on the sideline to close the game.

Butler told reporters that he would undergo an MRI on Thursday. The results will determine the next steps.

MORE: Expert All-Defensive Team picks from Steph Noh

How long will Jimmy Butler be out?

The MRI will determine the extent of Butler’s injury and how much time he is slated to miss. A serious injury could sideline for an indefinite period, per Charania.

Butler did not exit the game with his injury but was limited by it. In 40 minutes of action, Butler finished with 19 points (on 5-of-18 shooting), four rebounds, five assists and five steals

Check back for updates on his status for the remainder of the Play-In Tournament and beyond.

MORE: Why Jimmy Butler left the Sixers for Miami in free agency

Heat schedule

After losing in the 7-vs-8 game, Miami will return home to face the winner of the 9-vs-10 game between Chicago and Atlanta.

Fans in the U.S. can watch the NBA postseason action on Sling TV. Sling is the home for avid sports fans offering a range of sports channels so you can always cheer for your favorite teams with channels like ESPN, TBS, TNT, NFL Network, FS1, and more.