After an impressive 56-point performance in Game 4 of the NBA playoffs against Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Milwaukee Bucks, Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler took a moment to publicly endorse his former teammate Joel Embiid as the rightful contender for the 2023 MVP award. During his postgame interview, Butler was asked about the love he received from the Miami crowd, prompting him to quickly shift the conversation to his former teammate.
Miamis’s All-Star’s endorsement for Embiid, who he played with for one season in 2018-19, felt timely considering the award has yet to be announced, but also due to his current first-round opponent. While Butler dominated the night with another signature “Playoff Jimmy” performance, Monday’s matchup notably marked the return of two-time MVP and ‘23 finalist Giannis Antetokounmpo after a two-game absence due to injury. Despite the short layoff, Antetokounmpo turned in a standout game of his own, finishing with 26 points, 10 rebounds, and 13 assists.
With Game 5 of the playoffs set for Wednesday, it will be fascinating to see what Butler does for an encore in the potential closeout game. Until then, the six-time All-Star will remain the talk of NBA Twitter, with many, including Embiid himself, praising him for putting up MVP-like numbers against the team with the best record in the NBA this season.
Six Time NBA All-Star’s endorsement of Embiid speaks volumes about the bond the two share, having played together for only one season but still maintaining a strong connection. As the MVP race heats up, it’s clear that Butler’s focus is on supporting his former teammate, even if it means taking the attention away from his dominant performance. It’s a testament to the respect and admiration Butler has for Embiid, both on and off the court.
As for Antetokounmpo, his return to the playoffs has been impressive, showing his strength and resilience despite his injury. However, with Butler leading the charge, the Miami Heat remain a formidable opponent and a potential upset in the making. Regardless of the outcome, it’s clear that the MVP race is one to watch, with each player vying for the top spot in their unique way.
Jimmy Butler Sets Miami Heat Playoff Record with 56-Point Performance in Game 4 Win over Bucks
Jimmy Butler put on an incredible performance Monday night, leading the Miami Heat to a 119-114 win over the Milwaukee Bucks in Game 4 of the NBA playoffs. Butler finished the game with 56 points, nine rebounds, two assists, and one block, shooting 19-of-28 from the field. In doing so, he broke the Miami Heat playoff record previously held by LeBron James, who scored 49 points against the Brooklyn Nets in 2014.
Butler’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, leading the Heat on a 30-13 run over the final 6:09 of the game. The win gives Miami a commanding 3-1 lead in the series, with Game 5 set to take place in Milwaukee on Wednesday. If Butler can continue his impressive form in the upcoming game, the Heat will be well on their way to securing a spot in the next round of the playoffs.
Butler’s record-breaking performance has solidified his status as one of the most clutch players in the league. With his all-around game, leadership, and never-say-die attitude, he has become a fan favorite in Miami and a player to watch throughout the playoffs. If he can continue to play at this level, the Miami Heat will be a force to be reckoned with, and Butler will undoubtedly cement his legacy as one of the all-time greats in Miami Heat history.
