Jimmy Butler taking leave of absence from Miami Heat

MIAMI – Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler will be away from the team for personal reasons.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Heat said Butler was granted the leave of absence due to a death in the family.

The statement, which the Heat said was per Butler’s agent Bernie Lee, read:

“Jimmy Butler has been granted a leave of absence as he deals with the death of a family member. Jimmy and his family ask for privacy at this point in time as they navigate this loss. Updates will be given when appropriate.”

The Heat did not say how long Butler was expected to be away from the team.

Miami hosts the Boston Celtics on Sunday afternoon before heading out for six-game, 10-day road trip that begins with a back-to-back on Tuesday and Wednesday in Milwaukee and Philadelphia.