Butler scores 28 in return as Heat top Knicks for 2-1 series lead

Jimmy Butler returned from his sprained ankle to score 28 points, Max Strus added 19 and the Miami Heat topped the visiting New York Knicks 105-86 on Saturday to take a 2-1 lead in their Eastern Conference semifinal series.

Bam Adebayo had 17 points and 12 rebounds for Miami and Kyle Lowry added 14 points as the Heat never trailed.

Jalen Brunson scored 20 for New York, which got 15 from Josh Hart, 14 from Canada's RJ Barrett and 12 from Immanuel Quickley — who left midway through the fourth quarter after appearing to twist his left ankle. Julius Randle added 10 points and 14 rebounds for the Knicks.

Game 4 is Monday.

Jimmy Butler in the Game 3 W:<br><br>28 PTS<br>4 REB<br>3 AST<br><br>Heat lead the series 2-1