The Miami Heat traded six-time All-Star forward Jimmy Butler to the Golden State Warriors in exchange for Andrew Wiggins, Kyle Anderson, and a protected first-round pick last season.
The Jimmy Butler trade scandal cast a shadow over the Miami Heat’s 2024-25 season, and it was only a matter of time before he was traded.
The Golden State Warriors advanced toward an NBA title and acquired Butler.
Butler’s tenure with the Warriors got off to a great start, finding success with his new team. The Warriors looked poised to make the playoffs, but then Stephen Curry got injured and that chance disappeared.
But heading into this season, Butler and the Warriors have a great chance to do something special.
Months after the trade, Butler finally opened up about how he felt about his situation in Miami.
Butler revealed that not being close to his children made him miserable because they were in California.
So, Butler playing for the Warriors now means he’s closer to his kids, and that’s what makes him happy.
“The reason I’m so happy is because my kids are closer to me now. My kids are in California, so I was miserable because I stayed so long and didn’t get to see them.
“And I tell everyone, that’s the part of the game that outside eyes can’t see.
“You might think it’s just basketball, but it’s not.
“(We have) unbelievable players. I’m happy because I know we can win a championship, but I’m also happy because I get to take my kids.”
Butler is confident the Warriors can win a championship with this team.
They weren’t that far last season, and if Curry hadn’t been injured, the Warriors looked destined to make it to the Western Conference Finals.
Butler spent the entire offseason with the Warriors, which gave him good on-court chemistry with other players, and the Warriors made some great additions late in the offseason.
Golden State acquired De’Anthony Melton, Al Horford, Seth Curry and signed Jonathan Kuminga to a new contract.
If the Warriors can stay healthy, they should be a threat in the West this season.