Miami Heat fans had mixed feelings on Friday night. While they welcomed back All-Star forward Jimmy Butler from his seven-game suspension, their team took a tough hit, losing 133-113 to the Denver Nuggets at the Kaseya Center.

Butler, who scored 18 points in his return, had been sidelined for behavior that the team called “detrimental.” Rumors swirled about potential trades, but nothing materialized, leaving Butler back in his usual spot with the Heat.

The crowd’s lukewarm reaction during pregame introductions didn’t faze Butler, who gave a faint smile. His agent even playfully referenced Michael Jordan’s famous “I’m back” statement, adding to the drama.

After the game, Butler stayed composed, telling reporters he wasn’t surprised to be back in action. “A lot was said by everybody except me,” he shared. “We’ll let people keep talking like they know everything. The truth will come out eventually.”

He also made it clear he has no issues with his teammates. “It felt good to get out there and run around with these guys. I’ve got no beef with them,” Butler said.

Meanwhile, the Nuggets dominated the court. Jamal Murray put up 30 points, and Nikola Jokic notched his 17th triple-double of the season with 24 points, 12 rebounds, and 10 assists.

With the loss, the Heat dropped to 20-20 for the season, slipping to tenth in the Eastern Conference standings. They’ll have a chance to regroup when they host the San Antonio Spurs on Sunday.

As for Butler’s future? That remains unclear. But for now, he’s back on the court, ready to play.