Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler expects to play Wednesday evening against the New Orleans Pelicans. Butler, who has not played since Dec. 20 after a stomach bug and subsequent reconditioning, told reporters Tuesday he plans on rejoining the starting lineup.

The Miami Heat will take on the Atlanta Hawks this Saturday at State Farm Arena in Atlanta. The Heat enter the matchup with a 15-13 record, fresh off a narrow 89-88 victory over the Orlando Magic. Meanwhile, the Hawks hold a 16-15 record and are coming off an impressive 141-133 win against the Chicago Bulls.

As the trade rumors surround Jimmy Butler and the Miami Heat, the focus for fans is if he will play Monday night as they take on the Brooklyn Nets. Butler's status was revealed to be “questionable” for the contest as the team looks to break their three-game skid after winning four straight prior.