Detailed Breakdown:

Jimmy Butler Status:

Injury Update:
After being ruled out Saturday due to limited mobility, Jimmy Butler has spent the last 24 hours pushing his recovery — intense treatment, private workouts, and live court action.
Today’s Progress:
- Full participant at today’s shootaround.
- Although not 100%, Butler showed enough mobility and conditioning for the Warriors and Heat to believe he will attempt to play tonight in Game 4.
Condition:
- Still battling limitations — won’t be 100%, but is cleared to return based on performance and medical evaluations.
- Likely minutes restrictions, and may be used in specific game situations if needed.

Steph Curry Status:

No significant injury news.
- Steph is expected to play tonight with no restrictions.
- Standard pregame routine went smoothly; no reported setbacks from prior minor ankle soreness.
- Warriors plan to lean heavily on Curry as they aim for a crucial 3–1 series lead.

Expert Analysis:

On Jimmy Butler’s Return:

“Even 80% of Jimmy Butler is a massive lift.”
Butler’s impact is not just in scoring but in leadership, defense, and emotional control for the Heat.
“Expect bursts, not a full workload.”
Given his limited mobility, Butler will likely be used strategically — heavy minutes late in quarters, especially the 4th, where his toughness shines.
“Playoff Jimmy is a real phenomenon.”
Historically, Butler plays through pain better than most. Even without peak explosiveness, his half-court IQ, bully-ball tactics, and ability to draw fouls will be critical.

On the Warriors’ Preparation:

“Prepare for the Butler effect, not the Butler numbers.”
The Warriors aren’t just preparing for Butler’s offense. His mere presence energizes Miami’s defense and slows down fastbreak opportunities.
“Steph will be hunted.”
If Butler is mobile enough, expect Miami to target Curry in pick-and-roll switches, trying to force defensive breakdowns.

Key Tactical Implications:

Heat might slow the pace, minimizing Butler’s movement needs and keeping the game in a tight, half-court slugfest.
Warriors will likely test Butler early, forcing him to defend and see how his body holds up over multiple possessions.
Miami’s bench players must step up because Butler’s minutes and effectiveness could fluctuate throughout the game.

Jimmy Butler is likely to suit up for Game 4, but the Heat must manage expectations.
The Warriors are mentally preparing for a “Playoff Jimmy” appearance, even if he’s not physically at 100%.
Tonight’s game could hinge not on Butler’s points, but his presence shifting the emotional intensity of the game.