Disgruntled Heat star Jimmy Butler returns in loss to Nuggets

Jimmy Butler, his seven-game suspension completed, returned to score 18 points for the Miami Heat in a 133-113 loss to the visiting Denver Nuggets on Friday night.

Less than two hours before tip-off, Butler said "I'm back" in a statement his agent Bernie O. Lee released on social media. The statement indicated it was a response to questions about Butler's career plans.

Butler, 35, has been unhappy this season and requested a trade. He also has sharply criticized the organization on multiple occasions.

The Heat suspended Butler on Jan. 3 for conduct detrimental to the team. During the suspension, Butler reiterated that he wanted to be traded.

Miami coach Erik Spoelstra never mentioned Butler's name during a long opening remark to start his pregame availability.

"We work in a league of complexity," Spoelstra said. "We're in an unusual place right now but all it is is complex. So it's my job to prepare this team and get them ready to play at a high level, and that's what I'm doing.

"My methods for doing it are really none of your business. You're looking for drama, I'm looking to getting this team ready to play at a high level."

A six-time All-Star, Butler is averaging 17.6 points, 5.4 rebounds and 4.6 assists in 23 games. This is his sixth season with Miami.

--Field Level Media