Jimmy Butler reportedly hyperextended knee, could play Monday

Gabrielle McMillen

Jimmy Butler reportedly hyperextended knee, could play Monday image

Jimmy Butler's left knee injury may not be as severe as it seems.

The Bulls shooting guard and small forward landed awkwardly Friday night during the team's 115-110 loss to the Nuggets, but the injury is reportedly only a hyperextension, CSN Chicago reported. Butler could be back in the lineup as early as Monday.

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After Butler's fall, he took two free throw shots and then was carted off the court. The Bulls initially called the injury a sprain and said Butler would have MRI testing done Saturday.

For Chicago, it would be a huge relief if Butler only missed the matchup against the Timberwolves Saturday. Butler is also only eight days away from competing in his second NBA All-Star game.

Butler has been the Bulls' most consistent player, averaging 22.4 points, 5.2 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 1.7 steals while shooting 45.8 percent this season.

Gabrielle McMillen