New day, new troubles for the Miami Heat. The contenders from the Eastern Conference just can’t find a game where none of their players are benched. But, the most concerning news is coming from the star, Jimmy Butler‘s side. Why? Well, the 35-year-old power forward might not be around for Sunday’s game night. So, what’s going on with him?

Ira Winderman of the South Florida Sun Sentinel reports: Jimmy Butler didn’t practice Saturday due to illness. The 6x NBA All-Star made his comeback on Monday after missing four games because of a sprained ankle. However, Butler is back on the injury report, adding to Coach Spo’s worries. Just hours before the illness news surfaced on the internet, Butler and his coffee brand Bigface partnered with booze brand Bacardi to debut the Miami Rum Room Beach.

There the NBA star was spotted serving up cocktails made with coffee. Butler was seen having a blast, not just playing dominoes and taking selfies, but also tending the bar and mixing up drinks. Unfortunately, the 6x NBA All-Stars fun moments didn’t last long and he ended up with a mystery illness, sidelining him for who knows how long.

The Miami Heat already have four players listed day-to-day, with names like Terry Rozier (foot) and Josh Richardson (heel) standing questionable for Sunday’s face-off against the Dallas Mavericks. However, Bam Adebayo will be on the floor for the Heat. However, Jimmy Butler’s absence will add to the team’s stress.

Who are the potential replacements for Jimmy Butler in Coach Spo’s starting lineup?

The Miami Heat have won 6 games and lost 7 games in the 2024/25 NBA season. Despite their on-court and off-court woes, the team stands fifth in the East. Just a few days ago, Jimmy Butler was on a roll against the Philadelphia 76ers, scoring 30 points in his comeback game. The 35YO small forward proved once again, why Erik Spoelstra values his presence and experience for the young talents of Miami. However, with the latest illness reports, the HC now has to sketch out some new plans to see what can be done.

Meanwhile, two possible names are emerging as candidates to fill in Jimmy’s shoes. First, the 30-year-old shooting guard Duncan Robinson. Second, is the 23YO small forward Jaime Jaquez. The sophomore has played only 6 games this season and was away due to his ankle injury. However, reports suggest Jaquez is back in practice and could possibly hit the parquet floor on Jimmy Butler’s behalf. Coach Spo indeed has options on his roster who could do well in his All-Star player’s absence. But, the kind of game Jimmy Butler brings to the floor, who will bring the same? None, but exclusively Jimmy.

The Miami Heat’s struggles continue as Jimmy Butler’s latest setback adds to their growing list of concerns. With key players already sidelined, Coach Spoelstra faces a tough decision. While Duncan Robinson and Jaime Jaquez could step up, there’s no replacing the impact Butler brings. As the Heat look to stay competitive, they’ll need to dig deep to overcome yet another challenge.