5. What are your expectations for Jimmy Butler as he enters next season without a new contract?
Riccio: It is always tough to gauge Jimmy Butler’s ability in the regular season. But considering that he is going into his age-35 season and trying to get paid, I see Butler having an All-Star year where he played in at least 70 games. This could very well be his final real payday of his career, and there is no doubt in my mind he will maximize his efforts to prove to the Heat front office that he is still a max-level player. Luckily for Butler, he has the IQ, skillset and offensive finesse to age like fine wine. Add in the contract as extra motivation and better health luck, and a big year for him could be on the horizon.
Villasis: I am expecting Jimmy Butler to play 70 games or more and perform at an All-NBA level. If Butler wants a max deal, he needs to show he can be a star throughout the regular season and stay relatively healthy. Miami can’t afford to be in the play-in for a third straight year.
Marshall: I expect Jimmy Butler to report to camp ready to play games when healthy, and then everyone goes from there. I’m sure Butler wants to maximize his chance for a new, max contract, but I can also see the Heat disappointing early and exploring trading Butler before the deadline. I honestly don’t have a read on Butler. I would believe any story you told me about Butler in Miami over the next few months.