The Miami Heat has been one of the more successful franchises in the 21st century. The Heat have been to six NBA Finals in the past 15 years, four trips thanks to LeBron James and the other two because of the play of their star forward, Jimmy Butler.
Butler will enter his sixth season in Miami and will look to finally finish the job for the Heat franchise. While that is the case, this season could be his last in South Beach.
The 35-year-old entered media day looking like his usual self, no shenanigans this season, just all business. In addition to that, Butler is in the midst of a contract dispute, or at least he was.
Butler was asked about it during media day, and he said he just wanted to focus on playing basketball and staying healthy.
Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images
“I always want to hoop, always want to compete with my guys,” Butler said. “I hear him. I see what he’s talking about. I’m going to play as many games as I can.”
“No, I’m good,” he said. “An extension is just a couple dollars. I’m cool, I’m telling you. I’ve made enough. I just want to play basketball and want to be available, like Pat was talking about. I plan on being that and plan on us winning a bunch of games and making everybody happy.”
There has been some minor tension between Butler and the Heat organization since the Heat were bounced by the Boston Celtics in the first round of the playoffs.
Team president Pat Riley drew attention when he challenged Butler to miss fewer games and keep his mouth “shut” instead of trash-talking Boston. Riley was noncommittal about the idea of an extension for Butler, and all eyes turned to the Heat’s six-time All-Star for a response.
Butler entered the offseasons seeking a contract extension that would give him a raise in his existing contract and add another year. Back in May, Butler expressed his desire to remain in Miami.
“I feel at home, man,” Butler said. “I really care about the city, I really care about the people in this city. Miami has embraced me. They’ve wanted me to bring them something they haven’t done since LeBron, D-Wade and C-Bosh. And I want to do that. So as soon as I get this knee back right, I’m right back on they ass and everybody know it.”
Butler wants to play this year, stay healthy, and lead the Heat to the promised land.
More news: Jimmy Butler Wants to Finish NBA Career With Miami, Then Play Overseas
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