Jimmy Butler's agent shares 2-words on Heat star's highly anticipated return after 7-game suspension 

Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler will return to the lineup on Friday against the Denver Nuggets after serving his seven-game suspension. The Heat organization suspended Butler for "conduct detrimental to the team" following his trade request. Ironically, Miami's star announced his return by recreating Michael Jordan's stunt.

Butler announced his return with a two-word statement. Through his agent, Bernie Lee, the six-time All-Star recreated Jordan's 1995 "I'm back" message. The six-time champion retired for 17 months from the NBA to pursue a baseball career. After his short stint playing a different sport, "MJ" returned.

"I'm back," Butler's agent posted on X/Twitter.

If that wasn't enough Jordan references, he posted pictures on his Instagram story showing off his No. 45 Chicago Bulls jersey.

Butler wearing the No. 45 Bulls jersey while playing a game (Image Source: @jimmybutler/Instagram)

Butler wearing the No. 45 Bulls jersey (Image Source: @jimmybutler/Instagram)

Butler wearing the No. 45 Bulls jersey with his kids (Image Source: @jimmybutler/Instagram)

When Jordan returned to Chicago in 1995, he wore a different number, 45. He played 17 games during the 1994-95 NBA season, averaging 26.9 points, 6.9 rebounds and 5.3 assists on 41.1% shooting from the field.

Eventually, he reverted to his iconic No. 23 jersey the following season.

As for Butler, there have been no reports if he has changed his jersey number.

Jimmy Butler to start the game for the Heat

Despite Jimmy Butler's suspension, the Miami Heat still trust that he'll give it his all against the Nuggets. According to ESPN's Tim Bontemps, head coach Erik Spoelstra will start Butler on Friday.

“You’re looking for drama. I’m looking for getting this team ready to play at a high level,” Spoelstra said ahead of the game.

Butler will start the game along with Duncan Robinson, Tyler Herro, Haywood Highsmith and Bad Adebayo. The head coach was asked why he chose to start Butler amid the forward's stalemate with the organization.

“I feel this lineup gives us the best chance to win tonight,” he replied.

Butler has played 22 games this season, averaging 17.6 ppg, 5.5 rpg and 4.7 apg on 55.2% shooting. His numbers this season are the lowest he's had since joining Miami in 2019.

During his suspension, the All-Star had a one-on-one talk with Heat executives. Team President Pat Riley was among the people who talked to Butler. According to ESPN's Shams Charania, the player made it clear that he wants to move on and play for a different organization.

Additionally, he reportedly informed Riley that he is not interested in signing a new deal with the Heat. However, he will exercise his $52 million player option for the 2025-26 season.