Jimmy Butler could still have the Miami Heat questioning if their strong culture can truly work on the biggest stars in the league. With the way that entire situation ended, it could push the Heat away from a trade pursuit for Ja Morant.
According to Jake Fischer, the Heat had internal discussions about a trade for Morant, but it doesn't seem as if much escalated beyond just that. The bad taste left in Miami's mouth after the Jimmy era could be a big reason why.
In years past, the Heat probably wouldn't have second-guessed a potential pursuit of Morant. In theory, he does seem like the perfect trade target for the Heat. He's an extremely talented, proven star that could be had on the trade market for a discount.
If that doesn't say Pat Riley, I'm not sure what other situation would.
Heat Culture may have lost its luster
However, with how everything combusted toward the end of the Jimmy era, the Heat's front office may have some real questions about whether their culture does fit with the modern stars in the league.
And one of the big reasons why could be the face of Heat Culture. In many ways, Riley is the face of Heat Culture. Honestly, Riley's presence as a legend just doesn't hit the same with these young stars.
Most of them may not even know Riley beyond his time as a front office executive for the Heat.
I wouldn't say that's the only reason, but it's probably a notable one. And honestly, most stars don't want to relinquish power. In perhaps its simplest form, the Jimmy exit from Miami was, at least in part, due to one big power struggle with the Heat's front office (most notably, Riley).
After that trauma, it's only natural for the Heat to be hesitant to jump right back into business with a star player who, in some ways, resembles Jimmy.
At the same time, if the Heat wants to make the jump to championship relevancy in the Eastern Conference again, they're eventually going to have to take a risk soon. And Morant is clearly one of the risks that they've already discussed.
The question is, how risky are the Heat willing to be? Because, in theory, Morant would represent the ultimate high-risk, high-reward move for the Heat.
But if there's any team (and its culture) that could help turn Morant's recent struggles around, it's probably the Heat. Are they willing to roll the dice again for the chance at excellence?