Miami Heat coach Erik Spoelstra expressed disappointment in the league’s decision to suspend Jimmy Butler for one game following the altercation with the Pelicans, according to the Miami Herald’s Anthony Chiang.
Spoelstra believed that the incident, characterized by some tangling and pushing, did not warrant a suspension, especially since Butler missed the fourth quarter as a result. Butler, on the other hand, wasn’t surprised by the decision, stating, “I’m basically still on All-Star break.”
Additionally, Nikola Jokic received a one-game suspension, and Thomas Bryant was handed a three-game penalty. As a result, all three players will miss the upcoming game against Sacramento, with Bryant also sitting out matches against Portland and Denver.
Regarding Bryant’s role in the altercation, he explained to Chiang that he intended to be a peacemaker when confronting Jose Alvarado after leaving the bench. His goal was to prevent any harm to teammates and himself, though the situation didn’t unfold as he had hoped.
In injury updates, Terry Rozier, who missed three games with a right knee strain, is listed as questionable for Monday’s game, showing progress on the road trip. Coach Spoelstra mentioned that Rozier is working towards recovery, and his return will depend on his body’s signals.
Tyler Herro, who hyperextended his left knee against the Pelicans, is optimistic about playing on Monday. He will undergo an MRI for reassurance, and despite being listed as questionable, he expressed confidence in his recovery, saying, “It’s feeling good.”
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