Jimmy Butler: Knee strain confirmed, out indefinitely

Butler's left knee strain was confirmed Saturday and he is without a timetable to return.

Analysis:

Butler's return will be dictated by how he responds to treatment, but he is one of the toughest players in the league, so it would not be surprising if he returned sooner than some might expect, given the fact that he was carted off Friday night. This is generally good news, as he did not suffer a tear, which could have ended his season. Look for Tony Snell, E'Twaun Moore and Doug McDermott to handle Butler's minutes over the rest of the first half, and we should get an update on Butler's status around the All-Star break.