Since Jimmy Butler’s arrival, the Golden State Warriors have won four of their last five games, climbing to 10th place in the Western Conference and securing a play-in tournament spot for now. However, Butler’s recent past with the Miami Heat remains a key part of his legacy. Now, an NBA insider has revealed a curious story during his time in Miami in which Butler named the best player he has ever played with, and his answer surprised many.
“When Butler first came to the Heat in the summer of 2019, Butler was in Riley’s office celebrating the signing of the four-year, $142 million deal. The two men cracked open a bottle of Screaming Eagle cabernet from Riley’s personally curated wine cellar inside the Heat offices. Riley was telling stories, and he asked Butler who the most talented player he ever played with was. Butler answered quickly: Wiggins, the 2014 No. 1 pick and his teammate with the Timberwolves,” stated NBA insider Brian Windhorst.
This decision shocked fans and NBA analysts, as Jimmy Butler has played alongside superstars like Derrick Rose and Joel Embiid, yet he chose Andrew Wiggins, who is averaging 17.6 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.3 assists this season. The ironic twist? Six years later, Butler was traded for Wiggins, bringing their careers full circle in a move that few saw coming.
Whether ironic or not, Jimmy Butler is now with the Golden State Warriors, aiming to regain his best form. So far, he has been crucial to the team’s offense, averaging at least 19 points per game since joining. Beyond his scoring, Butler’s defensive impact remains vital, showcasing his two-way excellence and proving to be an essential piece for the Warriors on both ends of the court.
Andrew Wiggins #22 of the Miami Heat controls the ball against Jayson Tatum #0 of the Boston Celtics on February 10, 2025.
Can the Golden State Warriors secure a spot in the NBA playoffs?
The Golden State Warriors have shown significant improvement, becoming a more dangerous offensive unit in recent games. Jimmy Butler’s arrival has provided the consistency and balance the team needed, allowing Stephen Curry and Draymond Green to share the offensive load more effectively while enjoying greater freedom of movement.
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Butler’s impact was evident in the win over the Houston Rockets, where he posted 19 points and 8 rebounds, including four defensive boards, the second-highest total of the game, just behind Brandin Podziemski’s five. His two-way presence continues to be a game-changer for the Warriors.
To secure a playoff spot, the Warriors must maintain this level of play. While Steve Kerr’s team has already demonstrated its ability to find consistency, the real challenge will come if Butler, Curry, or Green miss time due to injury. Depth concerns remain a factor, as the roster may not be deep enough to sustain success without its star players.
