Jimmy Butler Injury: Updates on Bulls Star's Calf and Return

Jimmy Butler is battling a calf injury that has forced him out of action for the Chicago Bulls' game against the Miami Heat on April 9. He returned April 11 against the Philadelphia 76ers.

Continue for updates.

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Butler In Lineup vs. the 76ers

Saturday, April 11

Nick Friedell of ESPN Chicago reported Butler would be in the lineup against the 76ers.

Butler has already missed significant time this season thanks to an elbow injury, so his return is an encouraging sight for Chicago fans considering Derrick Rose, Taj Gibson and Joakim Noah have also dealt with injuries this year.

To the Bulls’ credit, they have maintained their position in the playoff picture throughout the season despite so many setbacks. Rose returned to the Bulls lineup Wednesday after missing 20 games with a knee injury, so it will be nice for the Bulls to have both Butler and Rose on the floor heading into the playoffs. 

Even with the injury, Butler is in the midst of what can only be described as his best season ever, putting up 20.1 points and grabbing 5.8 rebounds per game. This is especially true when considering he has taken strides offensively to go along with his typical shutdown defense. Chicago could really use him out on the floor and healthy moving forward if it hopes to challenge for an NBA title this year and beyond.