Will Jimmy Butler Play Tonight? Toronto Raptors vs Miami Heat: Injury Report, Lineups & Predictions

The Toronto Raptors will look to build on their 3-game winning streak when they host the Miami Heat at their makeshift home. They can overtake their more fancied opponents in the Eastern Conference standings with a win tonight.

Date & Time: 20th January’21, 7:30 pm ET

Venue: Amalie Arena, Tampa, Florida

Record: Raptors (5-8) vs Heat (5-7)

Preview | Toronto Raptors

After a dubious start to the campaign, they are finally getting back on track. And most of that is down to the form of Kyle Lowry. The veteran point guard inspired them to a win against the Dallas Mavericks. He upstaged the more heralded Luka Doncic with 23 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists with an impressive 75% shooting.

But the concern for them, not just heading into this game but also the entire season, has been the number 5 position. Since they let Ibaka and Gasol leave in the free agency, their center position has been their Achilles’ heel. Maybe they will strengthen it in this trade window after waiving off Alex Len.

Starting 5 for the Toronto Raptors

Guard – Kyle Lowry

Guard – Fred VanVleet

Center – Aron Baynes

Forward – OG Anunoby

Forward – Pascal Siakam

Preview | Miami Heat

After losing 3 consecutive games, they finally pulled themselves out of a downward spiral against the Detroit Pistons. Bam Adebayo had his best game of the 2020-21 NBA season and shot 10 out of his 11 free throws. His game keeps evolving.

But the bigger concern for them is the potential unavailability of Jimmy Butler, who is out because of the league’s health and safety protocols. While Tyler Herro has also been suffering from a stiff neck, he may make a timely return for Erik Spoelstra’s side.

Starting 5 for the Miami Heat

Guard – Goran Dragic

Guard – Tyler Herro

Center – Bam Adebayo

Forward – Duncan Robinson

Forward – Kelly Olynyk

Predictions | Raptors vs Heat

While the Heat got back to winning ways, they did so against the basement boys. Hence, it is hard not to pick the Toronto Raptors as the favorites, given that their conquest over the Hornets and the Mavericks was more impressive.

But the key player in this matchup will be Bam Adebayo as the Raptors don’t have a big man who can contain his threat. Should he come firing out of the blocks, they may come out as the winners.