Overview

• Jimmy Butler's knee injury, diagnosed as a sprained MCL, will keep him out of action for several weeks, including the upcoming play-in game against the Bulls.
• The Miami Heat, still reeling from Butler's injury, must now face the top-seeded Boston Celtics in the first round if they advance past Chicago.
• Without Butler, the Heat's odds to win the NBA Finals have plummeted, reflecting the impact of his absence on the team's playoff prospects.
• Teammates Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro are expected to take larger roles in Butler's absence, aiming to keep Miami's playoff hopes alive.
• The Chicago Bulls see an opportunity for revenge in the upcoming game, as they face a weakened Miami team without its leading player.