Minnesota Timberwolves shooting guard Jimmy Butler is back after missing 17 games with a right knee injury.

And not a moment too soon. The Wolves cannot afford anymore losses if they hope to reach the postseason for the first time in 14 years.

Butler started for the Wolves on Friday night against the Lakers.

INSTANT IMPACT.

WELCOME BACK, @JIMMYBUTLER! pic.twitter.com/LFgTolJxQl

— Minnesota Timberwolves (@Timberwolves) April 7, 2018

Butler has been out since suffering a knee injury on Feb. 23 at Houston. He had surgery two days later to repair the meniscus and has steadily been working his way back. Minnesota went 8-9 during Butler’s absence.

Butler posted on Instagram earlier on Friday with a caption that hinted at his return.