MIAMI SHORES, Fla. — Jimmy Butler is no stranger to returning to former teams and facing the mixed reception that comes with it. He’s experienced applause and a tribute at Chicago in 2018, boos at Minnesota in 2019, and strong disapproval during his visit to Philadelphia the same year.
Next on his journey is a return to Miami, scheduled for Tuesday.
Expect a range of emotions and reactions.
The Miami Heat plans to honor Butler with a tribute video, a common tradition for players who have achieved All-Star status with the team. It’s likely that his name will be met with a powerful introduction alongside the rest of the Golden State Warriors starters. The atmosphere in the arena will blend cheers and a fair share of boos, reflecting the complex feelings stemming from Butler’s last weeks in Miami, which included three suspensions before his trade to the Warriors.
“There are no hard feelings,” Butler commented on Monday, after practicing with the Warriors at Barry University. “I’m in a better place now for me.”
Butler wanted a change, and Miami eventually honored his request. His presence has contributed to the Warriors’ current 16-3 record with him in the team, removing them from play-in tournament concerns and enhancing their chances for a guaranteed playoff place. Both Butler and his new team, Golden State, seem to be thriving from the transition.
Recently, Miami ended a tough 10-game losing streak. With the likelihood of participating in the play-in tournament looming, the Heat are adjusting to their new dynamics post-Butler.
“There will obviously be varied feelings about it,” shared Heat coach Erik Spoelstra concerning Butler’s anticipated return. “I probably won’t express all of them and that’s fair. But we enjoyed an incredible five-year journey and though we didn’t win the title, we had some amazing moments.”
During Butler’s era, Miami reached the Eastern Conference finals thrice, advanced to the NBA Finals twice, and won 268 games, counting playoffs, standing as the fifth most in the league within that timeframe. A lack of an extension offer last summer led to the relationship’s decline. Butler, who faced suspensions for breaches of team protocol, openly expressed the need for a new beginning. Though initially resistant, Miami conceded to trading him.
The Warriors seized the opportunity, and their refreshed roster now positions them as formidable title contenders.
“It’s been extraordinary. He’s among the elite players,” lauded Warriors coach Steve Kerr. “Our record is 16-4 since his addition. His unique talent blends strength with intelligence. He might not dazzle you with traditional skills, but his mental acumen and versatility are unmatched. His defensive prowess and his ability to consistently create open shots make him invaluable to our squad. We’re fortunate to have him on board.”
Historically, Butler’s returns have resulted in a mixed 1-2 performance for his teams. Minnesota was narrowly defeated 114-113 by Chicago on Feb. 9, 2018. Philadelphia secured a 118-109 victory at Minnesota on March 30, 2019, whereas Miami suffered a 113-86 loss at Philadelphia on Nov. 23, 2019.
For Butler, Tuesday is just another game.
“This is basketball. It’s straightforward,” Butler emphasized. “I’m not carrying all the emotions that everyone assumes. It is what it is. We had remarkable years here and I formed incredible bonds with people in the organization, the city, and even across Florida. But my goal is clear—I’m here to play basketball.”