The Miami Heat are set to face off with the Toronto Raptors in Scotiabank Arena as both teams look to get an advantage in the playoff race. The top of the Eastern Conference is separated by just a few games. The Heat look to retain the top spot in the conference while the Raptors look to challenge for the fourth seed. With a crucial game ahead, one key question regarding Miami's key star lingers. Is Jimmy Butler playing tonight?

Is Jimmy Butler playing vs. Raptors

Butler is dealing with irritation in his left big toe, according to the South Florida Sun Sentinal's Ira Winderman. The Heat announced that will be one of several players that won't play against the Raptors, joining Dewayne Dedmon, Gabe Vincent and Javonte Smart.

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Butler made his sixth All-Star Game this season while averaging 21.3 points, 5.9 rebounds, 5.5 assists and 1.7 steals. His presence is always key for Miami, as he drives their offense, especially in crunch time, and is one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA.

Miami has emerged as one of the favorites in the Eastern Conference, currently sporting a 50-28 record. They have already clinched a postseason berth but are looking to obtain homecourt advantage in the playoffs.

The Heat's contest with the Raptors is important for the playoff race but there is a bugger storyline prevailing. Kyle Lowry will be making his return to Toronto, where he spent nearly a decade and grew into one of the best point guards in the league. He helped elevate the Raptors to championship contention and helped them take him the ultimate prize in the 2018-19 season. Butler will. have to watch Lowry face his former team from the sidelines.