NBA Injury Roundup: Butler Optimistic, LeBron Sits, Sasser Nearing Return
Jimmy Butler Shakes Off Scare, Eyes Return Against Thunder
Jimmy Butler gave Heat fans a scare over the weekend when he took a hard fall during Miami’s win over the Pelicans. But if you ask Butler, he’s not planning to miss any time. Speaking after the game, he said he’s “optimistic” about suiting up for Tuesday’s matchup against the Thunder - a promising sign for a Heat team that leans heavily on his two-way presence.
Through 19 games, Butler has been as steady as ever. He’s putting up 20.2 points, 5.7 boards, 5.2 assists, and 1.6 steals per night, all while maintaining strong efficiency across the board.
He’s the engine of Miami’s offense and the anchor of its defense - and even when he’s not lighting up the scoreboard, his impact is felt on every possession. If he’s able to go Tuesday, it’s a big boost for Miami as they continue to navigate the early-season grind.
LeBron Sits Out vs. Pelicans, Lakers Eye Monday in Phoenix
LeBron James was officially ruled out of Sunday’s game against the Pelicans as the Lakers continue to manage his left foot. It’s the front end of a back-to-back, with L.A. heading to Phoenix on Monday, so the team is clearly playing the long game with their 38-year-old superstar.
This kind of load management isn’t surprising - LeBron’s been playing heavy minutes and remains the heartbeat of the Lakers’ offense. His absence Sunday gave others a chance to step up, but all eyes will be on whether he’s cleared for Monday’s tilt against the Suns.
Meanwhile, Marcus Smart missed his second straight game due to back spasms. The Lakers had upgraded him to doubtful earlier in the day, but ultimately ruled him out. It’s a situation worth monitoring, especially with the Lakers already juggling multiple rotation pieces due to injuries.
Marcus Sasser Assigned to G League, Nearing Pistons Return
Over in Detroit, there’s some positive news on the injury front. Marcus Sasser is inching closer to a return after being sidelined with a right hip impingement he suffered during the preseason. The Pistons have assigned the third-year guard to the G League’s Motor City Cruise for practice reps - typically a sign that a player is nearing game readiness.
Sasser had a promising rookie campaign and followed it up with a second year that had its ups and downs. He averaged 6.6 points per game while shooting 38% from beyond the arc in 57 appearances - numbers that suggest he’s capable of carving out a solid role in Detroit’s backcourt rotation.
The Pistons had said he’d be reevaluated roughly four weeks after the initial diagnosis, and that timeline is just about up. If all goes well, Sasser could be back in the mix soon - a welcome development for a young Detroit squad still searching for consistency.