"Locker room cancer strikes again" - NBA fans react to Jimmy Butler's comeback on Heat following 7-game suspension amid Pat Riley saga 

NBA fans reacted to the announcement that Jimmy Butler will start for the Miami Heat against the Denver Nuggets. The All-Star forward has been suspended for the past seven games due to conduct deemed detrimental to the team.

Friday evening, just hours ahead of the Heat hosting the Nuggets in Miami, senior NBA insider Chris Haynes reported that Jimmy Butler will make his return to the court. Haynes, who has been following the Butler-trade-demand saga closely, was told by sources that Butler is expected to be in the starting lineup.

The news of Butler's return has garnered a wide range of responses from NBA fans, with many expressing exhaustion for his antics.

"Locker room cancer strikes again", one X user wrote.

"This is like going back to your ex. There’s a reason yall broke up. This won’t last long and it’ll end ugly", another wrote.

"Playing for them after all that is nasty work. I would personally never," one said.

While some fans expressed their concern or frustration with Butler joining the team again, others were more relaxed in light of the news. Some commented on the announcement with a more humorous, laid-back approach.

"He’s either gonna go off for 40+ or he’s gonna sub out after the first time out 😅", said a fan.

"Jaime after he gets benched for Jimmy", posted another X user with a popular GIF.

"So he did all that to go back? Lmao clown heat," one said.

The Heat and Jimmy Butler's camp have been locked in a tight standoff that culminated in a formal trade request on Jan. 2. Following that, the Heat suspended Butler for seven games and issued a statement that they will look to trade him.

"Through his actions and statements, he has shown he no longer wants to be part of this team. Jimmy Butler and his representative have indicated that they wish to be traded, therefore, we will listen to offers", the Heat's statement read.

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The Jimmy Butler-Heat fued could get taken up a level

The falling out between Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat has been anything but clean. After months of build-up and indirect quotes, the Heat suspended Butler for his behavior on Jan. 3.

Despite no discernable progress being made since his suspension, Butler is expected to play Friday night's matchup against the Denver Nuggets. According to Heat sources, they expect him to be present and are prepared for him to play.

Nevertheless, there's a significant amount of hesitation, and many aren't quite sure how Butler could even return and face the Heat's locker room. Some within the organization even feel like they are bracing for more damage that Butler could potentially cause.

"Jimmy hasn't even really started," said a source close to Butler.

The Heat (20-19) are eighth in the Eastern Conference ahead of the Nuggets matchup.