Miami Heat: Jimmy Butler comes up big in homecoming contest

Jimmy Butler went back to the place where he began his NBA career on Friday night. Much like he did for the Chicago Bulls all those years, he delivered for the Miami Heat in a big way. His efficiency and scoring prowess were on display in Miami’s 116-108 win.

Efficiency was the name of the game for Butler

Butler was efficient with his shots on Friday. In 34 minutes of play, he went seven-of-10 from the field. He also made one of  two three-pointers. Most impressively, he managed to get to the free-throw line. Hitting 12-of-13 tries from the stripe, that equaled out to a 92.3 free-throw percentage.

Butler’s 27 points in a game was the most he recorded since November 7 against the Phoenix Suns when he scored 34.

He didn’t just score points on Friday. He also managed to do the little things well. Recording four steals,  five rebounds and seven assists, he was active in all phases. It is something that is becoming a common sight game in and game out for the former Marquette star.

A very welcome homecoming in big Miami Heat win

Friday, Jimmy Butler went back to where it all began.  drafted with the 30th overall pick in 2011, Butler carved out a nice career in Chicago. While in the Windy City, he was a four-time All-Star, was named to the All-NBA Third Team twice, and picked up other accolades along the way.

Perhaps the most impressive one was his Most Improved Player Award in 2015. The 2014-15 season was extremely successful one for Butler. He recorded 20 points and 38.7 minutes per game. He also started in all 65 games he played in.

Butler also managed to accomplish quite a bit in the playoffs. Particularly in 2015, his impact was felt for Chicago. He played in all 12 playoff games, averaging 22.9 points per game. He also showed his prowess defensively, averaging 2.4 steals per game. There is no doubt that he was a vital part of Chicago’s playoff appearances. now, Hopefully he will be able to bring the same playoff effort to the Miami Heat.

On Friday, Butler showed the same competitiveness he brought in Chicago. There is no doubt his impact has been felt, and despite all of his ups-and-downs throughout his career, he looks truly at home in Miami.