Overview
- Jimmy Butler is set to face the Miami Heat for the first time since his February trade to the Golden State Warriors, following a contentious departure marked by three suspensions.
- The Heat plan to honor Butler’s 5.5-season tenure, which included two NBA Finals appearances, with a tribute video during the pregame introductions.
- Butler has thrived with the Warriors, contributing to a 16-3 record in games he has played and embracing the team’s player-centric culture.
- Butler has downplayed the significance of the matchup, stating he holds no hard feelings toward the Heat and is focused on the Warriors' playoff push.
- The Heat, struggling since Butler’s departure, have gone 5-17 post-trade, highlighting the contrasting trajectories of the two teams.