MIAMI SHORES, Fla. – Jimmy Butler is back in South Florida.
Butler and the Warriors worked out at Barry University ahead of their showdown with the Miami Heat on Tuesday night.
Butler left Miami on bad terms, being suspended by the Heat three times, before finally being traded to Golden State.
Once with the Warriors, Butler received the lucrative contract extension that he had been seeking in Miami.
Butler said Monday that he and the Heat had reached the point of no return last April or May.
Butler said he knew what direction his situation was heading before the season even started.
Butler said, “I think the suspensions happened because they just didn’t want me to be around the team... it is what it is, I do some bills, so what?”
Butler said, “I’m in a better place now for me, I wish continued success for those guys over there.”
The former All-Star said he had some great year in Miami, including two runs to the NBA Finals.
As for his reputation after the bad breakup with the Heat, “I’ve always been painted as the bad guy. Everywhere I’ve been, I’m always the problem.”
The Heat are planning a tribute video for Butler. He said that he does plan to watch it.