Jimmy Butler finally got his wish, he’s leaving the Miami Heat and securing a new contract in the process.
The Golden State Warriors and Heat have reached an agreement to send Jimmy Butler to the Bay Area, a source familiar with the discussions confirmed Wednesday. Butler was instrumental in leading Miami to two NBA Finals appearances, but a rocky breakup led to multiple suspensions in January, ultimately sealing his departure.
To facilitate the trade, Golden State is parting ways with Andrew Wiggins, Dennis Schroder, Kyle Anderson, and future draft assets, according to the source, who spoke on condition of anonymity as the deal is pending league approval.
Wiggins and Anderson are heading to Miami, though Anderson’s long-term status with the team remains uncertain. Schroder, meanwhile, is being rerouted to Utah, where the Warriors happened to be playing on Wednesday night. Additionally, Miami is shipping Josh Richardson to Detroit, while P.J. Tucker, recently acquired by Utah, returns to the Heat, where he previously played during the 2021/2022 season.
Heat forward Nikola Jovic, who admired Jimmy Butler, expressed mixed emotions about the move.
“That’s my guy. I’m definitely going to miss him. I think a lot of us will. He meant a lot to this franchise” – Jovic said.
Miami will receive a protected first-round pick from the Warriors, which is currently slated for this year’s draft, though details could change. ESPN has also reported that Butler has agreed to a two-year, $113 million extension with Golden State.
“I’m happy for him. That’s a pretty big bag” – Jovic added.
One date to circle on the calendar: March 25, when Butler is set to make his return to Miami as a Warrior.
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