It turns out that Jimmy Butler has a history of playing pretty well against the Miami Heat.
Will he or won’t he?
That’s basically the latest when it comes to the topic of Jimmy Butler landing in South Florida.
Because after reportedly requesting a trade four days after the Minnesota Timberwolves’ 2017-18 campaign came to an end, and listing the Miami Heat as a preferred destination, the drama has been endless.
Between president Pat Riley supposedly not wanting to let go of the likes of Bam Adebayo, Josh Richardson and Justise Winslow, and head coach and general manager Tom Thibodeau continuously asking for too high an exchange… trade talks have started up then stalled, on what seems to be almost a daily basis.
And then of course, there was the infamous incident that took place at a Minnesota practice the other day.
Butler, who had been excused from the likes of training camp and media day, showed up during a team scrimmage on Wednesday, October 10, and let loose. It was said to be quite an ugly sight, shocking not just his teammates but the coaching staff and management too.
Of course, Butler, who conveniently had an interview lined up with ESPN’s Rachel Nichols that afternoon, tried to spin it, claiming it all simply came from a place of passion.
"“I haven’t played basketball in so long. I’m so passionate. I don’t do it for any reason but to compete. All my emotion came out in one time. Was it the right way? No! But I can’t control that when I’m out there competing”"
Regardless if that’s really what it came down to, Butler is right about one thing: he is a fierce competitor.
Including against Miami over the years.
Here are some of his best games versus the Heat.