In the meantime, Spoelstra reiterated that Butler's Finals performances have been the talk of coaching circles since last season ended. Spoelstra tried to put into context just how influential Butler's games against the Lakers will be in the future.
Players and everyone else who will be spending up to two months inside the "bubble" — including hotel staff, bus drivers and arena workers — will have no other choice but to get accustomed to the new reality if the NHL hopes to complete its most unique season. Once games resume, they will be played in empty arenas, with as many as three games played per day at each site, and with the Stanley Cup awarded in late September at the earliest. There is no guarantee the league will be able to pull it off.
"Watching Rudy evolve as a player on the court through his competitiveness, relentless work ethic and his passion and dedication to improve has been tremendous," Snyder wrote in a text message to ESPN. "He is an elite player and impacts our team in so many ways with his unique skill set, let alone his sheer will to win. He also has also has great belief in his teammates and what they accomplish. I am even more proud of how Rudy has grown personally and the impact he has had in our community and across the globe. His commitment to youth and to others has been so rewarding to see, and I know he will continue to make his mark in meaningful ways."
Sacramento Kings Face MasksHow will the play-in tournament work?
After the success of the play-in tournament in the bubble, the NBA officially implemented and expanded the play-in tournament for the 2020-21 season. The NBA board of governors unanimously approved the play-in tournament on a one-year basis.
Minnesota Timberwolves Face MasksMiami Heat All-Star center Bam Adebayo gave his mom the birthday present of a lifetime on Sunday. After years of struggling while living together in a single-wide trailer, Adebayo bought his mom, Marilyn Blount, a home she can call her own.
Milwaukee Bucks Face MasksThe league told its teams on Saturday that clubs found to not be complying with league rules designed to minimize the spread of the coronavirus this season could face major penalties such as forfeiting games or draft picks.
Orlando Magic Face MasksBryant benefited from the attention Westbrook drew, scoring 22 points and making 7 of 12 shots. And Wizards coach Scott Brooks loved seeing an animated Westbrook celebrating Bryant's dunk with the foul and encouraging the big man in the first quarter.