Heat are led to victory by Jimmy Butler and Terry Rozier, who make their perfect comeback.

The Miami Heat defeated the Portland Trail Blazers 106-96 to record their 33rd victory of the year.

In the win, the Heat did not play at their best. Following his knee scare, Tyler Herro missed his second straight game; the Heat kept Herro out of the game out of caution, even though no structural damage was discovered. Terry Rozier did make his injury comeback for the Heat throughout the game. Additionally, Jimmy Butler and Nikola Jovic, who were both suspended and missed the previous game, were back in the starting lineup.

Rozier Makes Impact

Coach Erik Spoelstra spoke postgame about what having Terry Rozier, who scored 19 points, grabbed four rebounds, and dished out four assists, back in the lineup means for the team.

“He has an ability to break the defense down, or at least get a defense to overreact,” Heat coach Erik Spoelstra said. “When you have multiple guys who are weapons like that, it’s good for your offense. I also really respect how much time he put into this to be able to get back and fast-track this.”

During his postgame media session, Rozier—who also finished the game with two blocks and a steal—praised the Heat’s medical team for preparing him to return from his knee injury.

“Just trying to get back, putting in two or three days at a time, really not taking a vacation for the (All-Star) break.” However, I feel OK. I have to give the medical personnel credit for their excellent work in ensuring my return and my complete health while ensuring we didn’t rush anything. It brings me joy to return.

Jimmy Butler’s Comeback
Jimmy Butler scored 22 points on 7 of 12 shots to lead the Heat. Butler made one of his two free throws from beyond the three-point line. He made seven of his nine free throw attempts. In addition to dishing out nine assists, Butler pulled down four rebounds, stole four, and blocked two shots.