OKLAHOMA CITY, OK- FEBRUARY 1: Jimmy Butler #21 of the Chicago Bulls goes for the dunk during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on February 1, 2017 at Chesapeake Energy Arena in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2017 NBAE (Photo by Layne Murdoch/NBAE via Getty Images)Layne Murdoch/Getty Images

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

Alec NathanFeb 12, 2017

Chicago Bulls swingman Jimmy Butler continues to suffer from a heel injury that has kept him out of the lineup. He missed Sunday's game against the Minnesota Timberwolves after playing 30 minutes in Friday's loss to the Phoenix Suns. He had previously missed the last three games before the Suns matchup.

However, he is nearing a return.

Continue for updates.

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Latest on Butler's Playing Status

Tuesday, Feb. 14

Vincent Goodwill of CSN Chicago reported Butler is probable to play Tuesday vs. Toronto.

Butler said after Sunday's game that his heel is "feeling better," according to K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Tribune, who added he is day-to-day.

Butler Has Put Up Big Numbers for Struggling Bulls

Forty-nine appearances into his best individual campaign to date, Butler is averaging 24.5 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.8 assists and 1.8 steals per game while shooting 45.5 percent from the field and 34.1 percent from three-point range.

"Jimmy's resume speaks for itself," Bulls head coach Fred Hoiberg said, per Johnson. "He's doing it every way possible. Jimmy is one of the elite defenders in the league and has become a complete offensive player."

A dynamic two-way presence, Butler will be hard to replace if he misses extended time. As far as replacements at small forward and shooting guard, Doug McDermott and Denzel Valentine project to see increased playing time in the days ahead.