Dwyane Wade sets record straight after Jimmy Butler downplays Heat Culture: ‘Miami isn’t for everybody’

Back in early 2025, the Miami Heat made a bold move by suspending former franchise star Jimmy Butler. While Butler was rehabbing an injury and working to stay in shape for a potential return, team president Pat Riley had other plans. In early February, Butler was traded to the Golden State Warriors. Following the move, and Butler’s critical comments about Heat Culture, franchise legend Dwyane Wade spoke candidly about the situation and the All-Star’s departure.

Ahead of one of Miami’s most pivotal games of the season, Wade sat down with the Miami Herald to preview the Heat’s matchup against the Chicago Bulls, a must-win game to secure a playoff spot and a chance to face the Cleveland Cavaliers. He also shared his perspective on Butler‘s exit and what it means for the organization.

“When you come to Miami, you know what’s expected of you. You know what to do, you know what accountability looks like,” Wade said. “No matter the players or the generation—if Pat Riley is involved—there’s going to be accountability. It’s not for everybody, as we always say. Miami isn’t for everybody.”

Reflecting on his own experience, Wade continued: “It worked for Jimmy for six years. It worked for me for 14—until I left and came back, and so on. But I do know this: everyone I’ve talked to who’s been part of this organization says Miami left a lasting impact on their lives, whether they liked it or not.”

Jimmy Butler and Dwyane Wade playing together with the Chicago Bulls during the 2016-17 NBA season.

Wade shares his perspective on Butler’s exit from the Heat

Reflecting on Butler’s situation in Miami, Wade made it clear he’s not one to assign blame without understanding the full story. “The one thing I’ve realized is don’t go around planting blame on somebody when you really don’t know what’s going on,” Wade said.

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He continued by acknowledging the nature of professional relationships. “You understand that relationships come to an end. A six-year relationship is a long time for a lot of people. So it’s OK that their relationship needed to come to an end. It’s just sometimes it doesn’t always have to be so nasty or ugly.”

Wade emphasized that the Heat are moving on and reiterated that he doesn’t believe in pointing fingers. He understands how the NBA works, sometimes a player and the front office simply aren’t aligned. In those moments, parting ways may be the best option for both sides.

Wade praises Adebayo and Herro as new Heat leaders

In the aftermath of Butler’s departure, the Miami Heat turned to Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro to lead the franchise. Wade didn’t hold back in his praise for how both players have stepped up.

“I love this season for those guys. I think it’s been one of the hardest seasons, especially for Bam,” Wade said. “Tyler has been through a lot when it comes to injuries, but he had a bright spot this year by making the All-Star Game and having that success.”

Wade also acknowledged the challenges the team faced amid Butler’s exit. “But then the Jimmy stuff, it kind of took a little energy out of the team, and it took them a while to bounce back and find their true identity.”