Wizards’ Butler likely out for the season

Butler suffered the injury in the second half of Sunday’s 121-107 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks.

Butler scored 19 points before leaving with 6:28 remaining in the third quarter.

"I banged my right hand on the backboard, and I immediately felt a great deal of pain," Butler said. "I am really disappointed because we finally had everyone back from injuries for the playoff run. I am going to stay positive and continue to support my teammates, and hope to get back as soon as possible."

The All-Star forward is averaging 19.1 points and 7.4 rebounds per game this season.

"Caron has had an outstanding season," said president of basketball operations Ernie Grunfeld. "We will miss his production and leadership on the court. We expect him to make a full recovery, and we will look for his teammates to step up in his absence."

Washington’s victory — coupled with Miami’s loss to Detroit on Sunday — moved the Wizards a half-game ahead of the Heat for the top spot in the Southeast Division. Washington also holds the sixth seed in the Eastern Conference playoff race with 10 games remaining in its regular season.