Jimmy Butler is set to return to Miami on Tuesday night with his current team, the Warriors, to play against his former team, the Heat. Despite the anticipation surrounding this matchup, Butler has dismissed it as just another game. He also downplayed his achievements in Miami, stating they “didn`t win anything significant” and just “had some fun.” He even described his time with the Heat as “alright.”
Regardless of Butler`s seemingly casual attitude towards his time leading the Heat to two NBA Finals, the team will honor him with a tribute video during Monday night`s game. Tribute videos are a common way for teams to show appreciation to former players, regardless of their level of contribution. However, the Heat are known to be selective with these honors, typically reserving them for players who have won championships or been named All-Stars during their time with the team. Butler achieved the latter twice during his Heat tenure. While he didn`t secure a championship with Miami, his tribute video is expected to feature highlights from the Heat`s two Finals appearances in 2020 and 2023.
The tribute video presents an opportunity for Heat fans to express their appreciation for Butler`s time in Miami, or potentially voice any lingering dissatisfaction over his recent departure. When asked about watching the tribute on the jumbotron, Butler responded indifferently, saying he would watch “if they have one,” but it “makes no difference” if they don`t.
It remains uncertain how Heat fans will receive Butler. While a positive reception is expected, the circumstances of his departure, including team conduct suspensions, public disagreements with Heat president Pat Riley, and a prolonged trade process, could still leave some fans feeling disgruntled.
Even if fans were to boo Butler, it`s unlikely to bother him, given his “just another game” attitude. It seems there may still be underlying tensions, and while Butler might view his Miami years more fondly in the future, that doesn`t appear to be the case currently.
Jasper Hawthorne